BBC TV Licence fee could be scrapped with shows put behind paywall
The BBC is undergoing its biggest reform in the last decade as they could be set to change its model for good and demand fees to watch certain shows.
A review of the BBC is currently taking place, as the broadcaster struggles to keep up with the numbers being brought in from competitors such as Netflix or Prime, as an increasing amount of Brits aren't paying their TV licences.
The number of residents paying for their licences have dropped by around 2.4 million since the peak figure recorded back in 2017/18, which is thought to be due to several factors.
Some of these include families preferring to avoid paying the fee and using the money on paying for a streaming platform subscription, or simply by declaring that they no longer require a licence as they don't watch live TV or BBC iPlayer, according to the Department for Media, Culture and Sport.
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New measures from the BBC could include advertisements and paywalls being introduced on the broadcaster's platforms across the board, for the first time ever.
It would mean that fans of hit shows such as The Traitors would be made to pay to watch their favourite shows, though this wouldn't be implemented straight away.
The proposal has been suggested as part of a mass review of the BBC, with Ministers now considering scrapping the BBC licence fee model, while looking for alternatives to generate more cash.
Despite these suggestions, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy is believed to be committed to sticking to the licence fee, though the introduction of a subscription tier may be introduced.
This would allow for advertising and involve charging richer households more to watch their programmes.
As part of the BBC Charter Review, which launched today (16 December), the Government will collect evidence on possible options in a public consultation that will run until March.
The green paper will outline the options the government will consider, from targeted adverts to full scale adverts on live TV, iPlayer and more.
Another possibility includes carrying advertising on the broadcaster's services, with the document stating: “On the more fundamental options of advertising and subscription, we are considering options ranging from targeted advertisements on bbc.co.uk or YouTube, to full advertising across all BBC platforms.
“We are also considering a targeted top-up subscription service for historic BBC content, increasing to a more expansive subscription service where commercial programmes are behind a paywall.”
Nandy said that they will 'ensure' that this review helps the BBC adapt to a 'rapidly changing media landscape' in a bid to put it back at 'the heart of national life'.
While adverts are being considered, options are being discussed to help people access the BBC and its services, which may include free licences for over 75s and if any concessions for students and those receiving social benefits, similar to Germany.
BBC director-general Tim Davie, who is soon to be replaced, also highlighted the 'public consultation on the future of the BBC' as he spoke about wanting to change to 'deliver for the UK for generations to come'.
"We want to secure a public service BBC that is independent, sustainably funded for the long term, and meets our audience's needs," he further stated.
The current BBC Charter will expire in December 2027, meaning that a new Charter for the broadcaster will start from 2028.
Joshua Nair