The £180 BBC TV licence has been branded "ridiculous" and could potentially be reduced, according to former BBC One controller Lord Michael Grade. The veteran executive, who also served as chairman of the BBC Board of Governors, argued that the fee should be lowered to maintain public support for the broadcaster.
Lord Grade's 10-Point Plan for Reform
Speaking to the Radio Times, Lord Grade stated: "Either the BBC has a secure and adequate income, or it doesn't exist. But it also depends on public support, which it is in danger of losing… So, the licence fee must come down." He has outlined a 10-point plan for reform, highlighting the unfairness of the current system.
"It's ridiculous that I pay the same as a single mum with three kids in a rented room somewhere in the UK," he said. "It's not right. I'm happy to pay more, so that person can pay less."
Public Reaction and Subscription Calls
Responding to Lord Grade's comments, one viewer suggested: "Make it subscription. The BBC has total control then of its budget. It's for the best for everyone that way." Another agreed: "The BBC should be made a subscription channel, on a rolling contract so you can cancel your subscription at any time."
Criticism of BBC's Handling of Controversies
Lord Grade also criticised the corporation over its handling of the Donald Trump Panorama documentary, which led to a lawsuit from the US President. He described it as "unforgivable" and said: "The BBC didn't expose the mistakes themselves. The BBC thinks owning up to mistakes is a sign of weakness, but I regard it as a sign of strength. They should start doing it."
Additionally, he commented on the BBC's competitors, stating that YouTube is "a distribution platform not a competitor in terms of creating content."
