Davies to review free sport on TV

David Davies also worked on London's 2012 Olympic bid

Former Football Association head David Davies is to review the list of sporting events that are reserved for free-to-air television.

Mr Davies has been charged with overhauling the list as the broadcasting landscape changes.

The review is expected to look at the principle of having the list, which includes the football World Cup final.

A revision of sporting "crown jewels" was last made in 1998, resulting in the removal of Test match cricket.

Wider public

The current system has an "A-list" of events that must be screened live on television, including the European Football Championships and the Grand National.

Highlights of events on a secondary list must also be provided.

Mr Davies has said he will recruit a panel to take part in the process, and said "we will want to hear from the wider public as well".

He added: "I have been asked by the secretary of state to act speedily and intend to do so."

Speaking in September, Culture Secretary Andy Burnham said it was vital the list "moves with the times and people's tastes".

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