ANYONE who has lived in Australia will know the ABC TV channel provides a wide range of programmes, just like the BBC but without a licence fee being charged (Should the BBC's licence fee be axed?, February 25).

The BBC should not be spending money advertising itself; it should not have an unfair competitive advantage over other providers; and it should not receive more than £2 billion a year.

But it should be more accountable and follow a charter of unbiased and honest reporting.

The library system in this country provides a free public service but is paid for through council tax. If the BBC were funded partially in this way, with sponsorship for certain types of programme, this could result in a more level playing field.

In selected cases, the public could also fund a variety of special 'public interest' programmes such as documentaries.

And think of the massive savings that could be made in administration costs.

The benefits of changing are significant and in the public interest.

Colin Clarke

The Crescent,

Stamford Bridge,

York.

Updated: 10:00 Friday, February 27, 2004