BBC Harrassment

I have had a letter at work from the BBC, or at least the arm of the Beeb that trades as "TV Licensing".

It seems that they have assumed that, as an office, we have web access.  This at least is true.  Therefore, they reason,  as it is now possible to view live TV programs on the web, we must need a TV licence for our office.  Unless we prove otherwise...

Now that is odd, because the (very) little bit of legal training that I have did mention something called the burden of proof.  Something about the person who wishes to assert something being the one who has to prove their case.  Yet there is nothing in the BBC's letter which contains even the remotest indication that anyone in our office has been watching live TV via the web.

Instead, there is a form for me to fill out, which looks very like a witness statement, being rather legalish and with a space for my name, address, and so on, in which I can tick one or more boxes to explain on what basis I think I don't need a licence.  There is a stern warning that if this is not complied with and a licence is not purchased, then they will commence an investigation into us.  Indeed, it warns that an investigation is likely even if we return the witness statement, in order to ensure that our statement is true.

That is odd, as well.  I do not recall the BBC having any power of entry into my office.  So presumably the investigation will consist of a man with a yellow jacket and a clipboard standing at my door, angling for an invitation in, and haranguing me until I admit something.

The whole letter is threatening in tone; it is written from an assumption that we have broken the law, that I am an habitual liar, and that we need to be brought into line.  The references to investigations following if we do not buy a licence are horribly close to demanding money with menaces.

I was sufficiently insulted by the letter that I declined to respond using their form.  Instead, I have written a curt letter back to them in the name of the firm, stating that a licence is not necessary for the premises.  We shall see what happens.  My staff have been briefed that if an investigator turns up, he is not to be invited in and that I will speak to him outside.

If he insists on taking my time looking round the office, I will ask for him billing details and give him a client care letter setting out my hourly rate.