The building of Asia Television Limited (ATV). [Photo/Agencies]

The authorities of Hong Kong announced a refusal to renew free-to-air license for Asia Television Limited (ATV) on April 1, one of Hong Kong's two free television broadcasters.

Hong Kong's Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Gregory So said the government has decided not to renew ATV's free TV license in accordance with the Broadcasting Ordinance. He said that a notice had been served to the TV station, informing that it could continue to broadcast for one year until April 1, 2016.

In the meantime, the government will set up a task force to resolve any problems that may arise during this one-year transitional period. According to Gregory So, this is the first time in the history of local broadcasting that an incumbent's broadcasting license is not renewed.

Established in 1957, ATV is one of the two free television broadcasters in Hong Kong.

Related:

Huayi Brothers clinches US films deal

China plans legislation to regulate broadcasting, TV