26th May
IPA calls for BBC licence challenge.
MediaCom View: In a bid to combat the BBCs commercial competitiveness and
constant cross-promotion, the IPA has called for the licence fee to be challenged before 2016. They have hinted that
alternative funding mechanisms need to be examined before digital transfer takes place, implying that there could
possibly be a challenge to the new Royal Charter as soon as 2010.
Billie Piper is set to quit her role in 'Doctor Who' as the Doctor's assistant half-way through
the second series.
MediaCom View: The show has so far been very successful for the BBC who have refused to
comment on future scripts and character changes.
Five fight back with the acquisition of US medical drama House.
MediaCom View: Five have secured the rights to US smash hit House starring
Hugh Laurie. The show has been a huge hit Stateside regularly attracting 18million viewers and has remained a top ten
hit since its launch in November. This is another key acquisition for Five who are looking to strengthen their US imports
in an effort to improve their profile.
Barb, the TV audience research body launch a major consultation on June 7th.
MediaCom View: Barb has announced plans to consult with industry bosses
within the TV marketplace in an effort to stay on top of the ever changing UK TV market. Topics up for discussion
include possible mergers between Barb and Rajar as the industry looks to keep pace with the digital revolution.
Any outcomes will be keenly anticipated as they could also have a knock on effect on the way TV currency is traded
at present.
Rajar contractor signals new approach.
MediaCom View: The RAB has teamed up with the Outdoor Advertising Association
to examine how the consumers brains really interact with both mediums. The research uses the theory of neuro-planning
brain patterns and looks at 5 social environments from relaxed to very high pressured. The qualitative research shows
how both radio and outdoor are passive mediums that really get under the consumer radar.
The OFT have approved an exemption for newspapers from EU legislation.
MediaCom View: The ongoing saga continues with the OFT issuing a draft proposal
on the distribution of newspapers and magazines. Their provisional view is that newspaper distribution qualifies for
exemption from this inquest, whereas magazines remain in breach of competition law. Despite this split ruling, both
parties are fighting to keep the current system in place to avoid eventual disruption to the whole sector. Publishers
have until the 17thJune to turn this ruling around.
Annelies van den Belt, deputy ad sales director at the Times has quit to go to the Telegraph.
MediaCom View: This is the latest in a long line of appointments by The Telegraphs
managing director Murdoch MacLennan. Van den Belt, who was also responsible for the digital strategy of the Times and
Sunday Times, will take overall responsibility for the Telegraphs new media operations. Since MacLennans arrival last
August, he has shaken up the groups workforce, with new blood being brought in to replace key senior staff.
