BBC should not overspend on shows such as Suits and Schitt's Creek, MPs say

The House of Commons cross-party culture and media committee has released a report urging the BBC to avoid overspending on international shows like Suits and Schitt's Creek. MPs argue that the corporation should be more strategic when competing for programming rights. While the BBC creates much of its own content, it also purchases overseas shows for its TV channels and streaming platform.

The report suggests the BBC must reform the TV licence fee to ensure a sustainable, universal source of funding amidst changing media habits and declining income. Committee chair Dame Caroline Dinenage emphasized that the government must secure a reliable funding source for the BBC, but added that the corporation can play its part by avoiding costly bidding wars against commercial rivals.

The BBC, however, maintains it spends less than 5% of its content budget on acquiring shows and considers them cost-effective for delivering high-quality content. The committee's recommendations come as the government considers the next BBC Royal Charter, which will outline the broadcaster's governance, regulation, and funding from 2028 onwards.