The BBC has provoked a backlash after requesting that the Government ensure a new button for its services is added to British TV remotes. The proposed button would sit alongside those already present on smart television remotes for streaming platforms such as Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+.
The corporation argued that remote controls remain a popular gateway to content and that global competitors with substantial financial resources can secure branded buttons through worldwide distribution deals with device manufacturers. It stated that public service media providers should also have prominence on remote controls for their linear and on-demand services, with buttons branded on the same basis as those of other content providers.
Public reaction on social media
The proposal drew a negative response from the public. On X, @Marc_FlintYT wrote: "I'll just use a razor and slice it off." @Juve38Wa98021 posted: "The only button I need when I see the BBC on is the off button nobody wants to watch the Bolshevik broadcasting corporation anymore f*** off."
Some users joked that a BBC button already exists, referring to the power switch. @Blanch_COYS2 typed: "Strange, mine already has one. It’s the big red one in the top left corner." @mattholly said: "They can have the off button." @skittles_kitty wrote: "Remotes already have a dedicated BBC button. It’s the power button."
Criticism and licence fee context
@8nine10NFT addressed the BBC directly, writing: "The @BBC is acting like that ex that can't accept it's over and you don't want to see them anymore. Dear BBC, We had a good run, but you broke our trust and we can no longer believe a word you say. In the early days of the relationship, you were fun and exciting. But now, you're just pushing your agenda in our faces constantly and demand we pay for things you want that we don't. It may be hard to hear, but it's over. We don't want you anymore. It's time for you to move on. Sincerely, The British Population."
The request follows an increase in the TV licence fee from £174.50 to £180 per year from April 1. The Government previously said the £5.50 rise, the BBC's main funding method, would give the corporation stable financial footing to deliver for audiences and support the wider creative industries. The DCMS said the cost is rising in line with inflation as required by the 2022 Licence Fee Settlement, with a further rise tied to CPI inflation due in April 2027.
