22.5.06

Sell Radio 1 & 2? Now that is a stupid idea

The European Media Forum, an arm of independent research institute the European Policy Forum, published a report today advocating for the privatisation of part of public service broadcasting's greatest successes - Radio 1 & 2. Their reasons are simply that they are too successful and stifling the growth of the private sector. Well isn't that amusing! The free market drones advocate that the market will provide what the consumer wants, but if the consumer doesn't want what the commerical sector provides, then somehow the free market values should not apply and those public sector organisations responsible for the stagnation of commercial radio should be privatised.

"The BBC, with an annual radio budget of £450m, has badly bruised its private sector rivals," says the report.

"The BBC's ability to tap all its various media platforms to cross-promote - and cross-subsidise - its radio output has added to the commercial sector's woes."

The report also suggests that Radio 1 and Radio 2 be sold, saying their public service role was "minimal" and that they would prosper in the commercial sector.

What a load of rubbish. If the commercial sector cannot compete, maybe it shouldn't exist at all. What is proposed is public subsidised private companies whose only goal is to provide the cheapest service to maximise their profits.

For my part, I listen mostly to Radio 1, 2 and 4, occassionally Classic FM and Kerrang. This is my personal choice, as I loathe radio commercials which are often so annoying I have to turn over. In addition, Classic FM's quality of non-digital output is poor and the other local stations play little music, loads of commercials and employ radio presenters who are self obsessed and think we are interested in knowing about their latest holiday to some exotic place or their opinion on the latest fashion.

I vote for preserving Radion 1 & 2 owned and funded by the BBC. If we lose the rubbish that commercial radio provides, then I won't be losing any sleep.

And while I am on the subject of music - LORDI ROCKS! Well done Finland.

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