The BBC is set to push forward with its plans to launch a British rival to Netflix after the government called on the corporation to ‘explore’ the possibility.
The working title, ‘Britflix’ is believed to be in development in partnership with major commercial rival ITV.
The news follows the release of a government white paper that saw culture secretary John Whittingdale commit to a further 11-year Royal Charter, protecting the licence fee until 2028.
Despite the commitment, however, Whittingdale stated, “This should not prevent or deter the BBC from adapting to a world in which paying for ‘top-up’ services is becoming more commonplace. Elements of additional subscription revenue should, therefore, be considered and explored.”
The service would carry British broadcasters’ archive content, as well as commissioning its own original series.
The corporation has also stated that any new service would not see existing programming hidden behind a paywall.
