BBC Trust looks at 3G TV and radio

The BBC Trust is consulting on corporation plans to syndicate all its national TV and radio services over 3G networks for mobile devices.

Executives have proposed to make the arrangement permanent following a 12-month trial which ended in April.

Mobile network operators Vodafone, Orange, 3UK and T-mobile and, via other MNOs, Sky, would distribute the channels as part of their subscription TV services.

Demand for mobile TV was unproven, the BBC said, but its presence - though not novel - could help technology develop.

Syndication would remain in line with the corporation's "lowest common tier" principle - that, on pay platforms, its services must be part of the lowest-charge tier available. In addition, they would be distributed on a "zero rated" basis - so there is no data charge and they do not contribute to users' data allowance.

The BBC proposal said the cost would "not be significant", and continued: "It is proposed that the syndicated content be offered on a continuous basis. Over time, it is likely to complement mobile broadcast networks for the delivery of on-demand content and interactive services. The BBC will keep this type of provision under review as part of its overall mobile strategy."

The Trust has invited comments from stakeholders and will decide whether the plan can go ahead, or if it must first conduct a more thorough public value test.