Sky and Virgin case could set a precedent

BSKYB and Virgin Media (formerly ntl: Telewest) are probably the leading names associated with pay TV channels in the UK - Sky's customer base extends to 70 per cent of all pay TV subscribers in the UK.

Sky not only provides the ability to view, but also owns various channels. Other carriers, such as Virgin, make payments to Sky for the right to show Sky channels. Virgin also owns the rights to various channels and Sky pays Virgin for the right to s...