About 46.5% of local families, or 1.06 million households, receive digital terrestrial television services according to a December survey, showing the penetration rate has grown more than 40% since the end of 2008.

Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Rita Lau told lawmakers today the service take-up rate has been growing steadily and the two domestic free TV licensees - Asia Television (ATV) and Television Broadcasts (TVB) - have been making good progress in expanding their digital TV coverage in phases.

Coverage had been extended to 85% of the population by the end of last year, and will cover all of Hong Kong by 2012.

Mrs Lau said the Government will carefully consider the question of analogue switch-off and will make proper arrangements to ensure a smooth migration from analogue to digital.

"The target of switching off analogue TV services by 2012 is still being used for planning purposes. However, the Government will take into account the future market situation, including the take-up rate of [digital TV] services, before making a final decision on the switch-off. Sufficient preparation will be made in all aspects to ensure public awareness before the analogue switch-off is to be implemented. At the current stage, analogue switch-off will not be considered."