"We
know that viewers will be disappointed that the BBC and Fox have
not been able to agree a deal over the rights to the third series
of 24.
"After
long and protracted negotiations we were unable to agree scheduling
and timescales that met the needs of both parties.
"However
the BBC has bought the rights to some new and exciting shows in
2004 that give our viewers a chance to see some of the best programming
from other countries - particularly Stephen King's Kingdom Hospital
which promises to be a real viewing event on BBC TWO and THREE in
spring 2004.
"We're
also confident that the award-winning American comedy, My Wife and
Kids, will be a great addition to early evenings on BBC TWO this
winter."
All the
BBC's digital services are now available on Freeview,
the new free-to-view digital terrestrial television service, as well
as on satellite and cable.
Freeview
offers the BBC's eight television channels, interactive services
from BBCi, as well as 11 national BBC radio networks.
