Ofcom, the UK’s television market regulator, has said pay-broadcaster BSkyB should offer its premium channels, including the Sky Sports channels, to rival platforms.
The Financial Times reports that Ofcom is planning to force BSkyB to offer its channels at regulated prices to ensure competition, in the wake of the collapse of rival Setanta Sports. The plans were outlined in a report on the UK pay-television sector.
Ofcom is also considering tougher competition controls on auctions for Premier League football rights.
Premier League chief Richard Scudamore said, “We are surprised that Ofcom is seeking to revisit an issue that was addressed to the satisfaction of the European Commission. We will resist any measures that disincentivise media organisations from bidding for our rights.”
