Acquisition GSB & ITV3 Launch

ITV PLC
01 November 2004

1 November 2004


                       ITV3 TO LAUNCH ON SATELLITE TODAY
                        ITV ANNOUNCES ACQUISITION OF GSB

ITV plc has today announced that it has agreed to buy Sky Ventures' 49.5% share
in multi-channel operation Granada Sky Broadcasting (GSB) for £10m.  In
addition, Sky would receive 49.5% of any proceeds, net of liabilities, from any
potential sale of Men and Motors.

Following the acquisition, GSB's channel Plus will become ITV3.  ITV3 launches
tonight (1 November) at 9pm on digital terrestrial television (DTT), digital
cable and digital satellite and will be broadcast to around 13 million homes.

The newest addition to ITV's channel portfolio, ITV3 will showcase contemporary
British drama from the extensive ITV programme library with titles including
Prime Suspect and Inspector Morse in addition to films and US acquired series.
The acquisition of GSB further strengthens ITV3 by giving it access to an
additional catalogue of popular titles including Cracker, Sherlock Holmes, The
Darling Buds of May, Wycliffe and PD James.

Commenting on the deal, Charles Allen, Chief Executive of ITV plc said:  'We are
delighted that ITV3 will be available on all digital platforms from launch,
reaching the widest possible multi-channel audience. Incorporating recent
popular drama from ITV1 and the best of Plus into ITV3 will create the strongest
possible proposition for viewers and advertisers. This deal delivers on our
strategic objective to build the ITV family of digital channels and will enable
ITV3 to maximise its potential.'

                                      ENDS

Press enquiries:
ITV plc                       Nicola Howson            020 7843 8091/2
                              Brigitte Trafford        020 7737 8719

Citigate Dewe Rogerson        Alex Brown               020 7282 2837

Investor enquiries:
ITV plc                       Georgina Blackburn       020 7261 3911


Notes to Editors:

GSB currently operates Plus, an archive channel, and Men and Motors.  It was
established in 1996 with Sky Ventures and Granada Media as shareholders.   ITV
plc, parent company of Granada Media, will now take full control of the company.
Men and Motors will continue broadcasting in its current form pending a
review of its long term future.




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