Sobotka backs retention of license fees for Czech TV and Radio

The prime minister, Bohuslav Sobotka, believes the current compulsory license fee model of funding Czech Television and Czech Radio should remain in place. Mr. Sobotka said he had informed President Miloš Zeman of his view when the two met at Prague Castle on Wednesday. Mr. Zeman recently suggested paying the license fee could be optional and said Czech Television was not fulfilling its role as a public service broadcaster. The prime minister said maintaining the current model was the best way of ensuring the station and Czech Radio remained independent.

Author: Ian Willoughby