RTV Theory and Practice - Special Issue

n We аге clear . . .that if funds are repuired to рау for the broadcast program they should be contributed by those who in fact receive it . . ." (SyKes 1923:20)_ This parafiscal device solved the problem of commodity-formation in radio broadcasting in pre-war Britain . It also led to the nationalization of the radio services , as state collection of the license fees seemed inappropriate for a private сотрапу . However the BBC actually made more profits unđer state ownership than it ever did in private hands! (Gordon 1939: 184) The peculiar mixture of high-mindedness and arrogance personified by Reith , the BBC's first Director-General, was only made possible through the insulation from public opinion through the compulsory sale of BBC programs . During the inter-war years , the BBC was a forerunner of a whole series of state corporations which were to run forestry, gas , eiectricity , and airlines . This was part of a worldwide trend towards state planning and ownership during a period of slump and war . Gne Labor political described the nationalization of the BBC as: v . . .Socialist legislation which is respectable if in4roduced by a Conservative Government, but is Bolshevism if introduceđ by a Labor government.' (Morrison 1933: 153) UnliKe other nationalized broadcasting corporations , the BBC never came under direct party or state control. It was set up as an autonomous corporation , with day-to-day control over its own affairs . But , because its Board of Governors is appointed by the executive and the size of the license fee is decided by Parliament , ‘. . .its mdependence is far from complete'. (Collins 1987): 42) However the BBC has created a distinct style of public sector broadcasting , which was admired worldwiđe . This includes not just the broadcasting of 'impartial' news and documentaries but also a wide variety of entertainment, such as plays and music. The corporation aims to provide a 'universal service' both geographically and through specialized services . A recent survey of radio listeners shows how these Reithian concepts of public service have been internalized by the overwhelming majority of the Bntish audience . (Barnett and Mornson 1988: 113-126) The mfluence of the BBC example сап be seen m other countnes as well , such as in the recent decision of the West German Federal Constitutional Court. The juđges descnbed public service broadcasting in Reithian terms as 1 . . .essential for proper functionmg of the democratic system and cultural life' . (Porter 1988 : 9) Recent conflicts with the Тогу government have exposed the

72