Internet TV within months as BBC1 simulcast plans are announced

12/06/2008

The UK could have internet TV within months after the BBC announced it is to "simulcast" BBC1, with every show broadcast on TV simultaneously being available on the internet.

The programmes will be available to anyone in the UK with a broadband connection and a computer.

The BBC already broadcasts BBC3 and BBC News in the same way and with ITV announcing a similar plan for its channels, the internet TV boom looks to be on its way.

Speculation is now mounting over whether or not the licence fee will be enforceable after the official line said that those watching on computers will still be liable for the charge.

Tory MP Philip Davies said applying the license to online viewers will be "impractical" and "unenforceable".

"Computers are mobile, people take them around with them," he said.

"Presumably even this government wouldn't introduce a tax on computers or laptops in order to pay for the BBC.

"This could also be the beginning of the end of the conventional TV set, and that, without a doubt comes the end of the licence fee too."

Another concern surrounding the switch may be that the UK's internet infrastructure might not cope with a mass switch to online TV without being upgraded to next generation broadband.