Netflix and Disney+ users ‘could have to pay BBC licence fee under new funding options’
Netflix and Disney+ users ‘could have to pay BBC licence fee under new funding options’
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Fans of Squid Game and Shogun may have to cough up for more series of The Traitors. The government is reportedly looking into asking Netflix and Disney+ viewers to contribute to a licence fee to secure the future of the BBC. As viewing habits evolve the government could consider funding options to support the broadcaster when it reviews the BBC’s current Royal Charter, which will end in 2027.
![[Disney + show Shogun romped home in the Emmys]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2024/09/11/15/Emmys-Preview_44259.jpg)
Rebecca Ryan, from pressure group Defund the BBC, called the possible move “opportunistic” and “desperate”. She told The Independent: “Is there anything this government won’t tax?. “Streaming is not broadcast TV. What will be next, YouTubers, gaming or podcasts? It’s just a tax on entertainment.”.
The discussions come after Culture minister Sir Chris Bryant said he wants a “massive production budget” for creating TV and films in the UK to remain part of the purpose of the BBC licence fee. “I do want the 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 is commissioned by others to make something that where the Intellectual Property (IP), or some of the IP, remains with the production company. I kind of want a bit of both.”. The BBC licence fee, which the government has committed to increasing in line with inflation each year until 2027, is to rise to £174.50 in April.
