Ofcom has received a request from the BBC for consent to broadcast live coverage of the 2010 Open Golf Championship. This event commences on Thursday 15 July 2010.
The Open is a Group B listed event, which means that Ofcom's consent is needed for exclusive live coverage. The rules which apply are set out in the Code on Sports and Other Listed and Designated Events ('the Code'). The test is whether broadcasters providing television services in the 'second category' (as defined in the Code) have been given a genuine opportunity to acquire the rights to broadcast highlights or deferred coverage of the event. 'First category' services are those which are free to air with national or near national coverage (currently BBC One, BBC Two, ITV1, Channel 4 and Five) and 'second category' services are all other television services.
Ofcom is now inviting broadcasters and other interested parties to comment on the BBC's request. Comments should be sent to John Furlong, Ofcom, Riverside House, 2a Southwark Bridge Road, London SE1 9HA (email: john.furlong@ofcom.org.uk) by Friday 28 May 2010. Unless confidentiality is requested, all comments will be available to view on Ofcom's website after the consultation has closed.