Cash plea to keep ITVD in business

ADMINISTRATORS Deloitte & Touche have asked Granada and Carlton for more money to keep ITV Digital running while they seek a buyer.

ITVD's dual owners are reluctant to pump more funds in, but are likely to bow to Government and public pressure and put up another £5m to £10m - enough for two to three weeks. Some fear their decision to abandon ITVD has damaged the ITV brand. Granada and Carlton gave £20m when ITVD went into administration on March 27, but this will run out within days.

The Independent Television Commission will today confirm that the digital licence can be transferred to another party. If no buyer is found within a few weeks, ITVD will be liquidated. ITVD's website has not been updated to tell customers of the latest developments. It says 'we are pleased with the progress' made renegotiating supplier contracts.