Quote:
Originally Posted by OLD BOY
You’re not listening. Such broadcasts can be paid for out of taxation. That is a good example of a public sector broadcast. This can be achieved on any of our five main channels (and their associated streamers) to continue to qualify for their privileged placement on EPGs and TV app menus.
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It can be paid out of the general tax take, but the reason it is not done that way is because it would create a direct financial link between HM Treasury and the state broadcaster. That’s politically unacceptable, because most of our politicians understand that the reputation of public service broadcasting in this country hangs on its independence from government as well as its quality.
We are never, ever going to see public service broadcasting become a line item on the chancellor’s spreadsheet. Whether it be a future funding model that goes entirely to the BBC or one in which various PSBs apply for grants to fulfil public service obligations, there must be, and will be, a firewall between broadcasters and government.