BBC and STV agree to share resources

The BBC and STV have agreed to enter into a partnership that will see both broadcasters share resource including facilities, training, technology and archive programmes.

The two sides have stressed that a final agreement would have to ensure that the editorial integrity of both broadcasters would be preserved in any picture sharing arrangement. Exclusive stories and features will not be shared, and “plurality or distinctiveness of news provision” will not be compromised by any such agreement.

STV has also indicated its willingness to participate in a proposed iPlayer federation as part of the BBC’s approach to sharing its iPlayer technology with other public service broadcasters.

BBC director-general Mark Thompson said: “These discussions point the way to the future role of the BBC in the wider public service broadcasting sector, both in Scotland and across the UK.

“While both broadcasters will maintain their distinctive approaches to the delivery of news and other programme content, it makes sense for both to explore potential synergies and to consider what, sensibly, could be achieved by working more closely together.”

Rob Woodward, chief executive of STV, said: “We are building a strong relationship with the BBC and are delighted to have agreed such a wide-reaching partnership deal that is there to better serve our viewers.

“We remain absolutely committed to maintaining our position as Scotland’s commercial Public Service Broadcaster, providing plurality of services for viewers.

“We believe that this partnership will be to the benefit of both our audiences and the creative industry in Scotland.”