ITV to lose PSB status?
June 27, 2008
Ofcom CEO Ed Richards has warned there is “a real possibility” that ITV could give up public service broadcaster (PSB) status as increasing numbers of viewers switch to digital TV. ITV enjoys PSB status in return for broadcasting local news, children's programming and UK-made drama, giving it free access to spectrum, prominent positions on electronic programming guides and the chance to bid for a high-definition slot on Freeview.
Richards told a conference on the future of broadcasting that it is assessing the financial consequences of ITV giving up PSB status, and promised “healthy debate” on the issue.