Sky To Fight Ofcom Content Share Ruling
BSkyB has vowed it will fight against the decision of media regulator Ofcom to force the dominant pay-TV broadcaster to make its top-tier content, including its sports channels, available to other broadcasters in order to ensure greater competition.
After hearing the Ofcom ruling, a Sky spokesman stated: ‘We disagree fundamentally with Ofcom’s approach, analysis and conclusions.
‘In light of Ofcom’s determination to pursue its preferred outcome, we will use all available legal avenues to challenge this unwarranted intervention.’
The decision came as Ofcom released its third consultation document where it states that the pay-TV satellite broadcaster should be required to make its premium channels available to other retailers on a wholesale basis.
Ofcom says that by doing this, it is ‘the most appropriate way of ensuring fair and effective competition’.
The regulator adds it is therefore also consulting on proposals to put in place a wholesale must-offer obligation, containing a range of regulated prices. Ofcom holds the view that Sky would gain a reasonable return from the proposals for pricing.
Meanwhile, Ofcom is also considering whether there is a case for more targeted interventions in relation to the next FA Premier League auction, especially considering the recent demise of Sky’s primary market rival Setanta.
