The government is exploring options for Netflix and Disney+ users to fund the BBC licence fee
London: The government is thinking about asking Netflix and Disney+ viewers to help pay for the BBC licence fee. This move aims to secure the BBC’s future.
As more people change how they watch TV, the government is reviewing funding options. This will happen when the BBC’s Royal Charter ends in 2027.
Sources say ideas include letting the BBC use ads, creating a tax for streaming services, or charging BBC Radio listeners.
Rebecca Ryan from the group Defund the BBC called this idea “opportunistic” and “desperate.” She questioned if the government would tax everything.
She also asked, “What’s next? YouTubers, gaming, or podcasts? It feels like a tax on entertainment.”
These talks follow comments from Culture Minister Sir Chris Bryant. He wants a bigger budget for UK TV and films as part of the BBC licence fee.
He mentioned that he wants streaming services to invest in the UK, like Tom Cruise has done.
However, he also wants British production companies to keep some rights to their work. He hopes for a balance between both needs.
The BBC licence fee is set to rise to £174.50 in April. The government has promised to increase it with inflation until 2027.
Recently, the fee was frozen for two years at £159, which hurt the BBC financially. The last increase was £10.50, bringing the total to £169.50 in April 2024.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said the licence fee is not enough to support the BBC and is unfair.
A BBC spokesperson stated they want to provide value to everyone. They plan to engage the public to shape the future of the BBC.
The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, Netflix, and Disney+ have been asked for comments.
