Upbeat

 As the year turns, it's hard to find analysis that predicts a bright future for the BBC. 

So it's good to discover that BT, in the shape of its policy person, Helen Burrows, thinks there's a good technical and financial future for PSBs, in evidence to the DCMS Select Committee. 

She's suggesting a move to a universal Internet Protocol delivery system for PSBs (and some Government services, say, from HMRC and DWP) which all broadband providers will be obliged to carry. This would free up DTT spectrum (although its not clear what use it would be to others) and significantly reduce PSBs' current transmission costs. IP delivery would allow more targeted services, allowing increased regionalisation; universal provision would help with online education and management of healthcare. 

"We suggest that a cross industry managed migration programme, modelled on the analogue to digital switchover (DSO) programme, could ensure all households get online using a modern TV that can receive online IP distribution with favourite PSB TV programming as the lead service. Once connected, vital public services such as primary healthcare can be delivered via the device they are already comfortable with: their TV."