Netflix and Disney+ users could have to pay BBC License Fees under new financing options’

On By Littum

The government is reportedly investigating to ask Netflix and Disney+ viewers to contribute to a license fee to secure the BBC’s future.

As viewing habits develop, the government could consider financing options to support the TV station as it reviews the BBC’s current Royal Charter, which ends in 2027.

Sources told Bloomberg, options on the table Include to allow BBC to use advertising, create a specific tax for streaming services or get BBC radiolytes to pay.

Viewers of streaming services like Disney + already pay a monthly fee
Viewers of streaming services like Disney + already pay a monthly fee (Copyright 2024, e.g. All rights reserved.?

Rebecca Ryan, from the Pressure Group Defund BBC, called the possible feature “opportunistic” and “desperate”.

She told me The independent: “Is there anything this government is not taxing?

“Streaming is not broadcast TV. What will be next, youtubers, gaming or podcasts? It’s just a treasure of entertainment. “

The discussions come after Minister of Culture Sir Chris Bryant said he wants a “massive production budget” to create TV and films in the UK to remain part of the purpose of the BBC License fee.

“I want streamers to come here. Tom Cruise has made massive investments in the UK, ”he added.

“But I also want us to have a system where a British production company gets ordered by others to do something where intellectual property (IP) or some of IP remains with the production company. I would like some of both. “

The BBC License fee, which the government has committed to increasing in accordance with inflation every year until 2027, will rise to £ 174.50 in April.

The broadcaster has been cash-loaded in recent years after the license fee frozen for two years to £ 159-till it was increased at a lower rate than the expected company and rising inflation.

The last increase in the household payment, which finances much of the BBC’s operations, saw an increase of £ 10.50, which brought the fee to £ 169.50 in April 2024.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy told the BBC Breakfast that the license fee was “not only inadequate, it collects insufficient money to support the BBC, but it is also deeply regressive”.

A spokesman for the BBC said: “We want everyone to get value from the BBC, which is why we are focused on delivering what the audience wants from us – trusted news, the best homework storytelling and the moments that bring us together.

“The public is interested in the BBC, and this year we will launch our biggest exercise ever for commitment, so the audience can help operate and shape what they want from a universal and independent BBC in the future. We look forward to working with the government on the next charter and securing the BBC’s long -term future. “

Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), Netflix and Disney+ have been contacted for comment.