Quote:
Originally Posted by tweetiepooh
One issue is that Sky own both the content and the distribution. Maybe they need to be split off so that no single company (replace with whatever definition you think makes most sense) can own both.
That way you'd have a content owner/provider who would sell to whatever distributors they want to at a reasonable price.
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Wouldn't that mean that the BBC and ITV could no longer make their own programmes and broadcast them on their channels? Sorry, but I don't agree with that.
The answer lies with legislating in respect of exclusivity rights. As far as Sky are concerned, for example, they should be allowed EITHER:
- To buy rights to programmes or films exclusively to show on their channels, but they must make their channels available (at no more than wholesale price and in HD where available) to other platforms, OR:
- To provide channels exclusively to their platform but not to show programmes on those channels on an exclusive basis. The HBO deal would not be allowed under this provision.
Given that this country prizes competition as much as it does, it is really surprising that the likes of Sky continue to get away with these uncompetitive practices. OFCOM should be ON it. Why is it taking so long? The Government now has an opportunity to show that it is not Mr Murdoch pulling the strings.
Don't hold your breath, anybody.
