Mike Darcey, BSkyB COO, says Ofcom seems determined to live in the past and perpetuate a broadcasting model (FTA public service) that may not be suited to supporting new technologies. He said propping up outdating models meant a financial burden on the industry, sapping investment that would otherwise go into content.

“It is not the job of a regulator to protect the interests of a small group of favoured broadcasters. They should not be trying to prop up a model which has history and tradition on its side, but which faces substantial challenges.” Darcey said.

He believes pay television is the right model for supporting diversity and flexibility in the market. Another major advantage is its accountability, if viewers did not like the content, then unlike with the BBC licence fee, they could simply cancel their subscription, he said

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