This survey of the current situation in 12 European countries, where cable television has moved from only passive distribution of broadcast signals to the active mode of local origination, includes both official and unofficial discussion about future cable possibilities. The study begins by clarifying the different contexts in which local exploitation of cable arose on each side of the Atlantic, and then considers the situation in those countries where active cable is or has been operational. Each country's experience is described with regard to the opportunities provided by existing broadcasting organizations for public access and/or participation in programming. Particular attention is paid to Great Britain since British cable experiments have continued longer than those in other countries. The issue of financing as a key to control is considered in the context of two questions: whether communities should have a greater share in controlling their own activities, and whether television is too expensive to be afforded at local levels, and thus less amenable to local control and funding than the cheaper medium of radio. The appendix provides an example of U.S. public access programming which has contributed to large profits. (Author/CMV)