UNITED KINGDOM
United Kingdom media conglomerate Sky is urging the nation’s broadcasting regulator to take action against rivals ITV and Channel 5, saying the channels benefit from too much Government support.
The Office of Communications, usually known as Ofcom, allows public service broadcasters, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5, certain benefits in return for them making programs that benefit the public.
However, paid-for broadcaster Sky has slammed ITV and Channel Five, saying they receive more Government support than they provide in value to the public.
In a submission to Ofcom’s planned review of public service broadcasting, the company said there was no longer a need for two privately-owned, profit-driven commercial broadcasters to be designated as ‘public service broadcasters’.
“This model is no longer fit for purpose – we should move away from it, towards interventions that are carefully targeted and are open to everyone,” Sky said.
It said there was no reason to alter the role or scope of the BBC or Channel 4.
The broadcaster’s comments come as public service channels, the BBC in particular, face increasing scrutiny over their roles.
The BBC is facing political pressure over the Television Licence Fee, which funds its output, and is also battling a decline in viewing figures as audiences shift towards online streaming giants such as Netflix.
Last month the corporation announced it would be cutting around 450 jobs as it aimed to save £80 million ($A155 million) by 2022 and reverse falling viewing figures.
London, 3 February 2020
