BBC eyes digital satellites for free

A one-off fee for multi-channel TV?

The BBC is considering a digital satellite TV service where users pay a one-off fee to get access to multiple channels. The service would be designed to partner the corporation's planned digital terrestrial service, which is currently under discussion with ITV and Channel 4. According to a report in the Financial Times, combining digital terrestrial and satellite offerings will enable the BBC to reach a far higher percentage of viewers, even though it would then be in direct competition with cable-providers and Rupert Murdoch's British Sky Broadcasting.