BSkyB objects over BBC’s ‘Canvas’ plan

Chris Forrester

‘Project Canvas’ is best described as the UK’s ‘Hulu’ catch-up TV system, backed by the BBC, ITV and Channel 4. Controversially, it is looking to be a wholly proprietary system where access and distribution is limited to member broadcasters. BSkyB is objecting.

BSkyB is attacking the decision by the BBC Trust, which governs the BBC, not to subject ‘Canvas’ to a full public value examination.

“The trust should subject the proposals to the highest level of scrutiny, in as transparent a way as possible, including submitting the proposals to a full public value test or equivalently robust procedure, with a market impact assessment conducted by Ofcom," says BSkyB in its public submission to the BBC Trust's consultation on Canvas.

"As a relatively new body, facing scepticism in some quarters as to its independence from the body it regulates, it is especially important for the Trust to demonstrate its ability to regulate the BBC's proposed activitives ... in a rigorous and impartial manner," argues Sky.

BSkyB further argues that the BBC Trust has not made its proposals clear, and questions whether there is unsatisfied public demand for such a service and that “adequate protections” are needed in order to avoid market distortion.