MP Lindsay Hoyle is calling on the Government to look into the sale of new Digital Video Disks - also known as Digital Versatile Disks.

The disks are the latest technological innovation to hit the high street, and are capable of playing CD Roms, Audio CDs, and videos.

The Chorley MP says he has learned that the machines will include a clever design feature fitted by the manufacturer, to enable them to keep a tight control over the market.

Each DVD machine is to be fitted with a 'region lock'.

"Effectively, they have divided the world into six regions, and will use technology to block the use of products on a machine from another region," explained Mr Hoyle.

"This means that someone owning a DVD machine in Europe will not be able to purchase products to use on their machine from the United States or elsewhere in the world.

"Though they appear to be compatible, DVD machines will not recognise the code." Mr Hoyle said: "I am extremely concerned about this. Fitting these region locks is a way of ensuring the manufacturer has complete control over prices.

"People will not be able to import or buy products from abroad more cheaply to use on their machines, as they simply will not operate.

Prices

"This way, manufacturers in Europe can fix prices at whatever level they wish, leaving the consumer open to exploitation.

"I have taken up this matter with the Department of Trade and Industry, and also with the Chairman of the Trade and Industry Committee, of which I am a member.

"I hope they will be able to look into this matter to see whether this is acceptable, and to ensure that the consumer is not being ripped off."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.