Ofcom review of PSB in Britain
1) It is a critical time for public service broadcasting because the way audiences watch TV is changing quickly. More people are choosing online and on-demand services instead of live television. At the same time, PSB faces growing competition from global streaming companies like Netflix and YouTube. This puts pressure on PSB to continue delivering its public service role.
2) TV viewing has moved away from live broadcast television towards on-demand and online platforms. Audiences now prefer to watch programmes when it suits them rather than at scheduled times. Younger viewers in particular are watching less traditional TV. Services such as Netflix, YouTube and broadcaster catch-up services have grown rapidly.
3) Audiences value PSB for providing trustworthy and accurate news. They also enjoy programmes that reflect UK life, culture and different communities. Content that informs, educates and entertains is still seen as important. These qualities help PSB stand out from global streaming services.
4) People still watch over three hours of live broadcast TV per day on average. Over half of this viewing is to PSB channels. However, viewers also spend more than an hour a day watching online services such as Netflix and YouTube. Use of broadcaster on-demand services has increased significantly in recent years.
5) Public service broadcasting provides a large amount of original UK content, around 32,000 hours each year. It plays a key role in providing trusted news and supporting democracy. PSB also supports the UK creative industry by funding production across the nations and regions. This makes it culturally and economically important.
6) Advertising revenue for PSB channels has fallen by an average of 3.8% per year between 2014 and 2018. The BBC’s income from the licence fee has also decreased by around 4% per year. Although some losses have been offset by online advertising and partnerships, overall funding pressures remain. This makes it harder to maintain the same level of programming.
7) Subscription streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video play a major role in modern media use. Online platforms like YouTube and social media are also increasingly important. Commercial broadcasters such as Sky continue to invest in original content. Podcasts, streaming music services and online news are also becoming more popular.
Goldsmiths report on Public Service TV
1) Over the last 20 years, the UK television market has seen a huge increase in channels, reducing the market share of public service broadcasters. Sky has become a major pay-TV player, while on-demand technology has changed viewing habits. Younger audiences are increasingly shifting away from traditional TV. Overall, the definition of television itself is evolving.
2) Public service broadcasting regulation should embed independence, universality, citizenship, quality, and diversity. These principles ensure content serves all citizens, maintains high standards, and reflects different communities. Regulation should protect the public service ecology rather than focus solely on market effects.
3) The BBC is the most important public service broadcaster, but its universality and independence are under threat. Funding via the licence fee is vulnerable, and governance structures compromise its independence. The BBC should embrace online innovation, support diverse audiences, maintain mixed programming, and improve services for BAME audiences and the devolved nations.
4) The report recommends replacing the licence fee with a progressive funding mechanism, such as a tiered household fee, a Council Tax supplement, or general taxation with safeguards. Funding decisions should be made by an independent advisory body with fixed settlement periods. The BBC should also be reconstituted as a statutory body to strengthen independence.
5) Channel 4 is vital for public service, supporting independent production and diverse audiences. However, programme spending has fallen, arts content has declined, and older children are underserved. The channel has also faced potential privatisation, which could threaten its public service remit.
6) Channel 4 should not be privatised. It should increase content for older children and young adults, restore arts programming, continue innovating across platforms, and maintain strong support for independent producers.
7) Public service-type content now exists outside traditional broadcasters, including on Sky, subscription platforms, Local TV, and cultural institutions. The report proposes a new fund for public service content, offering digital innovation grants for small organisations and cultural institutions. Grants would encourage partnerships with broadcasters and be funded by a levy on large digital platforms, distributed via an independent public media trust.
Public service-type content now exists outside traditional broadcasters, including on Sky, subscription platforms, Local TV, and cultural institutions. The report proposes a new fund for public service content, offering digital innovation grants for small organisations and cultural institutions. Grants would encourage partnerships with broadcasters and be funded by a levy on large digital platforms, distributed via an independent public media trust.
Final questions - YOUR opinion on public service broadcasting
1) Yes, the BBC remains the most important part of the UK’s public service television ecology. Its universality, mixed programming, and ability to reach all audiences make it central to public service broadcasting.
2) Yes, the BBC should embrace online platforms, develop digital content, and innovate across new services. It must maintain diverse programming while engaging younger audiences and supporting public service objectives in the digital space.
3) Yes, the report recommends replacing the licence fee with a more progressive funding mechanism, such as a tiered household fee, Council Tax supplement, or general taxation with safeguards. Funding decisions should be managed by an independent advisory body to ensure stability and independence.
Yes, the BBC should embrace online platforms, develop digital content, and innovate across new services. It must maintain diverse programming while engaging younger audiences and supporting public service objectives in the digital space.
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