Many of us have an attachment to the kind of broadcasting we grew up with, a pride in the staggering history of quality and innovation that has characterised television and radio for 50 years. A pride that causes us to raise our well modulated voices against any perceived barbarians at the gates.

Indeed, a cacophonous gurgle of throats being cleared can be heard as the latest report about our great television heritage is discussed. The Ofcom Review of Public Sector Broadcasting presents a simple, honest proposal: that the income from the licence fee should be shared amongst the BBC and its rivals. Let it be sliced, is what some say.