Sky subscriber charges may rise with new channel

BSkyB are said to be planning a shake-up to its pay-TV channels package, which could raise prices for its six-million-strong subscriber base.
The satellite broadcaster is understood to be working on a new general entertainment channel to be included in the basic package alongside Sky One from January. The channel - possibly called Sky One Extra - is likely to be accompanied by a £1 a month per household price rise.
Sky packages range from £10 to £37 per month. The estimated £75m a year extra revenue would translate almost entirely into profit since Sky would mostly use existing infrastructure and programme rights.
Sky executives are also working on a general entertainment channel for the new free BBC-led digital terrestrial service to replace ITV Digital. Sky has so far offered Sky News, Sky Sports News and Sky Travel - but analysts expect Sky Travel to be replaced by an entertainment channel in the medium term, assuming the Independent Television Commission approves.
(GB)