Consultation: Listed events - proposed variations to broadcast licences

We are proposing to remove the conditions relating to listed events from television broadcast licences.

The Media Act 2024 makes significant changes to the legal framework for listed events, which we expect to come into force in summer 2026. These include that the regime will now extend beyond linear television channels to include any programme service which can be used to show live coverage of a listed event, including streaming services.

We are proposing to remove conditions relating to listed events from television broadcast licences (rather than amend them to reflect the Media Act’s changes to the listed events regime). This is because the listed events regime imposes requirements directly on providers of services in scope of the regime, and we do not consider it appropriate for licensees to also be subject to obligations imposed as part of their licences which do not apply to other providers in scope of the regime.

This proposal affects the following licence types:

• Television licensable content service (“TLCS”)
• Digital television programme service (“DTPS”)
• Local digital television programme service (“L-DTPS”)
• Public service digital television programme service (“PS-DTPS”)
• Digital replacement service (“DRS”) (i.e. public service broadcasting licences for Channel 3, Channel 4 and Channel 5 services).
• Restricted television service for an event (“RTSL-E”)

We invite comments on the proposed changes by 5pm on Monday 2 March 2026. Once we have considered responses, we will publish a final statement outlining our decision.

Subject to considering responses to this consultation, we intend to complete the process of varying the licences later this year.

Responding to this consultation

Please submit responses using the response form no later than 5pm 2 March.