BII accused of sending out confusing satellite message

A licensee has blamed the BII for sending out a confusing message about foreign satellite equipment by running an advert for a supplier.

In the latest edition of the BII newsletter there is an advert for Euroview Sport Ltd which offers publicans Premier League football at prices "up to 75 per cent" cheaper than Sky.

The company provides licensees with viewing cards from EU countries outside the UK which have bought broadcast rights from the Premier League.

The legality of using those cards in the UK is being tested with cases involving suppliers and a licensee being sent to the European Court of Justice.

But in the meantime licensees can still face prosecution for transmitting the broadcasts.

Paul Heward, BII member and licensee of the Smith's Arms in Hartlepool, has complained to the BII about the advert.

He said: "I was shocked because the BII is supposed to be the Code of Conduct for licensees and they aim to give licensees helpful and reliable advice.

"Publicans will see this and think it is ok but they could face big fines which could potentially ruin their business.

"I think it is a confusing message to send out because the issue will not be clear until after the court case."

Tony Holman, co-director of Euroview Sport Ltd, said he is confident the European court will rule in favour of the suppliers.

"It is a confusing issue and the sooner we can clear it up the better for everyone. In our opinion if it is an EU-sourced card it is not illegal but this does still need to go to the European courts."

BII chief executive John McNamara said the organisation carries a disclaimer that shows it does not endorse suppliers that place adverts with them.

He added: "The court case is still subjudice so the only advice we can give licensees is to consult their own solicitors."