Even with limited programming choices, Canadians are purchasing HDTV sets at a faster rate than Americans.

A telephone survey commissioned by LG Electronics Canada and conducted earlier this month by Decima Research found 16 per cent of respondents already have an HDTV-ready set in their home. By comparison, Forrester Research estimates there will be 12 million HDTV sets in the U.S. by the end of this year, representing about 10 per cent of American homes.

Approximately two-thirds of Canadians know about HDTV, and 80 per cent of those say they have at least some interest in buying a high-definition TV in the future.

"The results of this survey confirm the growing popularity of high-definition television in Canada," said LG Canada's director of sales and marketing, Ross Snow.

But just buying an HDTV set alone is not enough. To view HD programs, viewers must also rent or buy a set-top box capable of receiving HDTV and subscribe to HD services from either their local cable company or satellite supplier.

"Manufacturers, retailers, programmers, cable operators and broadcasters must make a more concerted effort at educating Canadian consumers about HDTV," said LG Canada director Steve Preiner. "Canadians want HDTV. We are at a stage right now where the demand for programming is outstripping supply--a rarity in our business."

Many Canadian cable operators are relying on U.S networks for their HD programming. Few original Canadian programs are available in high definition.

According to Mr. Preiner, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission, cable broadcasters and programmers must step up and work more aggressively to keep pace with the technology advancements.

Canada, he said, risks being left behind unless the CRTC introduces "hard and fast deadlines" for HDTV adoption.

"It is essential that an industry-wide timetable be established to ensure HDTV

services keep up with the growing demand for HDTV programming."