How right he is to mention video-on-demand (VOD) operators investing in shows with worldwide appeal but not necessarily stories about us. These players are in direct competition for revenues with public service broadcasters and, as Tony Hall, the BBC director general, recently pointed out, this situation could lead to a £500m shortfall in investment in British programming. This would be a devastating blow for our democracy and cultural diversity. In addition, our government should also support draft EU audiovisual laws to ensure that 30% of VOD catalogues are national and/or European programming. We must see ourselves on screen in an ongoing national conversation that underpins our democracy and values all our citizens no matter where they live.

Source: The Guardian December 01, 2017 18:56 UTC