Freeview switch-off could let the BBC lock out non-payers
Key Points
- Freeview could switch off in 2034 or 2044
- Internet TV could let the BBC require an iPlayer log-in
- Witnesses said the BBC could block households without a licence
- MPs want affordable broadband in place before any switch-off
- 3.7 million households say they do not need a licence
Switching off Freeview could let the BBC block iPlayer access for households that do not pay the licence fee.
Witnesses raised the possibility with the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee, which published its BBC Royal Charter review report on Thursday (1 October).
Pat Younge, Chair of the British Broadcasting Challenge, and Alex Mahon, former CEO of Channel 4, told MPs that internet-delivered TV would allow the BBC to require viewers to log in to iPlayer. The BBC could then withhold access from households without a licence.
The government is consulting on switching off digital terrestrial TV, commonly known as Freeview, in either 2034 or 2044. All UK households would then receive TV over the internet.
The BBC currently has to broadcast its TV channels on Freeview as well as online.
Witnesses also told MPs that internet-delivered TV would give the BBC more data on its audience, allowing it to offer a more personalised service.
The committee did not take a position on the switch-off date. It said the switch-off can only happen once affordable broadband and media literacy are in place, with support for households that cannot yet access internet TV.
Director-General Matt Brittin told MPs that the BBC must have a solution for households yet to switch, whichever date the government chooses. He said the move would require a partnership across the TV sector.
The committee warned that the BBC cannot presume viewers will easily find its content on smart TVs after the switch-off. It recommended a law requiring a public service broadcaster button on the remote control of every smart TV sold in the UK.
A TV licence currently covers live TV on any channel and all BBC programmes on iPlayer.
More than 3.7 million households have declared that they do not need a licence. BBC research suggests around half of them still watch licensable content.
