Statement: BritBox materiality assessment

Statement published 19 September 2019

We have reached a final decision on whether the BBC’s involvement in BritBox, a new subscription video on demand service with ITV, represents a ‘material change’ to its commercial activities.

When the BBC engages in a new or significantly changed activity, the BBC’s Charter requires it to consider whether this is a material change to its commercial activities. If so, the change would require a detailed examination prior to launch.

The BBC Board assessed the corporation’s proposed involvement in BritBox, and determined it was not material. Under the Charter, Ofcom also must also consider this question, as part of our role to protect fair and effective competition.