Distribution of BBC public services

Statement and responses are available are available here - 29/03/17

A Consultation on Ofcom’s proposed requirements and guidance

The role of the BBC is to produce high quality and distinctive programmes and services which educate, inform and entertain.

As a large publicly-funded organisation, the BBC may have an impact on competition in the wider media market. It may have a positive effect by stimulating demand or encouraging sector wide innovation, for example. But in fulfilling its objectives, the BBC may also harm the ability of others to compete effectively.

To ensure that everyone can enjoy its TV, radio and online content, the BBC negotiates distribution agreements with platforms. There is a risk that some platforms may not be able to develop compelling consumer offerings if they are unable to include BBC content, or are given access to it on unfair or discriminatory terms.

This consultation looks at how we intend to ensure the BBC negotiates distribution arrangements on a fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory basis. It also includes a range of factors that we will consider when looking at complaints from companies that think they have been treated unfairly.

Distribution of BBC public services (PDF, 188.8 KB)