BSkyB queries Canvas TV project

BBC iPlayer allows viewers to catch up TV after its transmission

BSkyB has written to the BBC Trust expressing concern over a consultation process for a new service where web on-demand services could be seen on TV.

Dubbed Project Canvas, the BBC joint venture with ITV, BT and Five would allow more viewers to watch on-demand services like iPlayer via TV sets.

BSkyB is concerned about the time frame of the consultation and the lack of an independent market assessment.

The Trust said there was "ample opportunity" for expression of views.

"We've written to the Trust to express our continuing serious concerns about the process it has adopted in relation to the assessment of project Canvas," said Graham McWilliam, Sky's group director of corporate affairs.

'Rigorous process'

"The combination of a wholly unrealistic time frame for responses along with a failure to seek an independent and comprehensive market impact assessment from Ofcom demonstrates disregard for the principles of good regulation," he added.

"If the Trust continues to pursue its current course of action, it will only serve to undermine further industry confidence in its ability and inclination to act as a genuinely independent regulator of the BBC."

The first round of consultations was ended in May, when some broadcasting bodies requested more detailed information the proposals.

This was published in July and views have to be in by the beginning of September.

The BBC Trust defended the assessment as "a rigorous process which gives ample opportunity for comment and expression of views".

It also pointed out that following the current opportunity for comment on the proposals, there will then be a further period of consultation after the publication of the Trust's provisional conclusions later this year.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version