Tuesday, October 11, 2005

BBC seeks increase to licence fee

There is no reason for the BBC's licence fee to increase above the rate of inflation. In fact, there is no real justification for the licence fee at all.

The BBC no longer fulfils its historic role as an independent public service broadcaster. It long ago went down-market to compete head on with the commercial stations. In fact ITV now produces better drama.

The BBC also appears to have given over editorial control of news coverage to the Government. Since the Dr David Kelly affair, its outlets have toadied disgracefully. Sadly, there is no guarantee that financial independence would end that behaviour. Murdoch's media also appear to have been pimped.

It is time either for the BBC to be granted independence and allowed to advertise, or to be closed down entirely.

BBC NEWS | Entertainment | TV and Radio | BBC seeks increase to licence fee

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