The BBC has released previously banned programmes for sale on its new digital platform, BBC Store. Among them is the 1965 drama 'The War Game', which was withdrawn after government pressure for its graphic depiction of nuclear war in Britain. Another is Dennis Potter's 1976 play 'Brimstone and Treacle', deemed 'nauseating' by then-director general Alasdair Milne despite being 'brilliantly made'.
The store's launch highlights how once-controversial content can become revenue generators over time. Other notable releases include a documentary on Harold Wilson's 1970 election loss, banned for 42 years due to its mocking tone, and the 1977 drama 'Scum', which featured violence and gang rape and was withheld until 1991.
However, some programmes remain locked away. A royal 'It's a Knockout' special from the 1980s, featuring Prince Edward and Princess Anne, has never been repeated due to its undignified tone. The presence of convicted sex offender Stuart Hall in the show further complicates its release.
The 1965 children's series 'The Witch' was also banned after one series for being too frightening for young viewers. Its future on BBC Store remains uncertain.
