The BBC proposed to make changes to the availability of content on its iPlayer service by extending the catch-up period content from 30 days to 12 months and making some series available for longer.

Ofcom found that the changes to the iPlayer would create significant public value, providing audiences with more choice and helping the BBC deliver its public purposes. However, the proposals would also have an impact on fair and effective competition, for example by reducing broadcasters' incentives to invest in their video-on-demand (VoD) services. Overall, Ofcom found that the public value of the BBC’s proposals justified any adverse impact on fair and effective competition.

As part of its Public Interest Test, the BBC commissioned Frontier Economics to provide a report on the impact of these proposals on fair and effective competition.

Frontier Economics advises clients on issues relating to the media sector.

For more information please contact media@frontier-economics.com, or call +44 (0)20 7031 7000