It is time to chop up Auntie. Lord Carter, broadcasting minister, has proposed that some of the British Broadcasting Corporation’s income should be distributed to other broadcasters, preserving competition in the provision of public service broadcasting. This would be an excellent innovation. Not all of his recommendations are so well-judged, however. A universal service obligation for broadband internet is a waste of money.

The UK subsidises what is supposed to be enlightening, educational and factual broadcast content. Quite right, too. A well-informed and cultured population is a public good. Much of this mission is performed by the BBC, which raises money from the television licence – a tax on TVs.