All clear for launch of video on demand BBC TV

With the BBC's on-line TV programme catchup service you will be able to watch all the episodes within seven days of the final instalment being broadcast.

^{Brian Butterworth published on UK Free TV 4th June 2006 at 19:56}

At long last, and just on the regulator's (Ofcom) deadline, the independent production companies body (Pact) have finalised their agreement to giving BBC licence fee payers the right to view programmes on the Internet

• viewers will be able to catch up on any episodes of a series they have missed on-demand while the series is still going out.
• viewers will also be able to download and store programmes locally to view later. Once accessed, they have seven days to view them.

BBC iPlayer service (aka BBC iMP or MyBBCPlayer) - for which of these rights are key ? will launch the subject to a public value test by the BBC Governors

Bal Samra, BBC Television's Chief Operating Officer, said: "There have been some tough negotiations but there is agreement on both sides that these amendments strike a great deal for both the independent production sector and the licence fee payer."

Jana Bennett, BBC Director of Television, said: "This deal has improved what was a fairly narrow public service new media window to view programmes. It creates the possibility - subject to the necessary approvals - for audiences to catch up with their favourite BBC programmes at their convenience.

"It's great news for viewer choice and for anyone who wants flexibility as to when and how they watch our output."