UKTV dispute ends after two weeks

The Dave and Gold channels – as well as the rest of the UKTV package – are back on Virgin TV after a two-week row was finally resolved.

Today’s deal secures the likes of  Taskmaster, Judge Romesh and Red Dwarf  for the cable operator’s 5.9 million customers.

High definition versions of Dave and Gold will be added under the agreement, as well as a five-fold increase in the amount of on-demand programming available on Virgin TV.

The dispute arises because Virgin wanted to cut the fee it paid to pay to carry the channels, while the cable company complained it could not get the on-demand rights to UKTV shows that it wanted.

David Bouchier, chief digital entertainment officer at Virgin Media said: ‘Reaching this agreement reaffirms our longstanding partnership with UKTV and is fantastic news for our customers. They can enjoy channels like Dave and Gold once again. On top of this, the channels we've recently added to Virgin TV will remain.

‘We are sorry for what we know has been a frustrating time for our customers, but are pleased that our TV bundles are now even bigger. Our unwavering commitment to investing in incredible programming remains.’

Simon Michaelides, chief commercial officer at UKTV, added:

‘Viewers are at the heart of UKTV and we want to thank them for all of their support. We know this has created real disruption for some of our viewers and we're so sorry for this, but we are thrilled to be back, broadcasting our channels and shows to customers of Virgin Media once more.’

Virgin added US import channel Paramount Network, new Freeview channel YouTV focussing on real-life stories, gameshow channel IQTV and wildlife channel Love Nature in a bid to replace UKTV’s roster.

The broadcaster’s suite of  channels also includes W, Alibi, Drama, Yesterday, Eden, Good Food and Home.

Published: 11 Aug 2018