FCC Won't Disclose Cable Operator's Rate Information To Public

The Federal Communications Commission said it would protect rate information that it is seeking from cable operators from public disclosure. In protective orders issued Nov. 13, the FCC's Enforcement Bureau said that, "In general, the Commission will grant more limited access to those materials which, if released to competitors, would allow those competitors to gain a significant advantage in the marketplace." Specifically, it pointed to the information it sought in letters of inquiry about the per-sub fees for channels being moved from analog to digital. "Consequently, the Bureau hereby adopts this Protective Order to ensure that any confidential or proprietary information submitted by Company in response to Question 8.b. [the rate question] of the LOI is afforded adequate protection."