High Definition Television (HDTV) On 26 June 1991 the Commission adopted a proposal for a Council Directive on satellite television broadcasting standards (COM(91) 242). This proposal is one of two major actions aimed at ensuring the successful introduction in the Community of European High-Definition Televisi... On 26 June 1991 the Commission adopted a proposal for a Council Directive on satellite television broadcasting standards (COM(91) 242). This proposal is one of two major actions aimed at ensuring the successful introduction in the Community of European High-Definition Television (HDTV). The other action is a proposed memorandum of understanding (MOU) in which those European firms involved will accept legally binding reciprocal undertakings to develop and market services and equipment conforming to the new HDTV standards. The two instruments are intended to end the period of uncertainty which has hampered progress towards HDTV in Europe. When implemented, HDTV will offer millions of European viewers a picture quality comparable to that of the cinema, on an improved screen with a wide 16:9 format, plus sound quality equivalent to that of compact discs. The Commission aims to have the Directive adopted by the Council and the MOU signed by the interested parties by the end of the year.
