A comprehensive, new national policy for cable communications is recommended by the Cabinet Committee on Cable Communications. The goal of the policy is to achieve the orderly integration of cable with other existing communications media so that information may flow freely, protected from both private and governmental barriers. The first two chapters examine, respectively, the need for developing a new cable communications policy and cable as a medium open to all. Chapter III presents a series of 12 long-range policy recommendations which deal with: 1) the industrial structure, ownership and control of cable distribution facilities and programing; 2) the institutional and jurisdictional framework for cable regulation; and 3) consumer rights, responsibilities and safeguards with respect to cable. Chapter IV treats the transition period of cable's development, Chapter V describes a demonstration program, and Chapter VI provides a summary outline of policy recommendations. An appendix presents the current regulatory framework. (PB)