Why Older Viewers Deserve Much Better From Blinkered BBC

Does the BBC have a death wish? I ask in light of the reply by its Audience Services Department to a 55-year-old licence fee payer who complained of what he felt was the declining number of programmes of appeal to people of his generation.

- Ross Clark

He was told: “We find tastes in older age groups vary just as much as those in any other age group – for example, some older viewers prefer quizzes, soaps and lighter programmes whilst others prefer more cultural or factual programmes.

“This being the case there simply isn’t a typical programme or range of shows that would appeal specifically to older audiences.”

That might be a fair enough point were it not for the fact that the BBC is simultaneously trying to refocus its output on young audiences – whom it seems will in future have an entire channel to themselves.

Its annual plan, published last week, makes a commitment “to double investment in BBC Three content by 2022/23, bringing much more content specifically aimed at audiences aged 16-34 to our screens. We will invest in more youngappealing British drama and comedy, entertainment and events which bring the whole nation together.”

In other words, never mind old people – they can watch new, exciting shows for young people if they like. But it is younger viewers we really want.