Premier League's inaction fuels licensees' confusion

The FA Premier League's (FAPL's) failure to prosecute the suppliers of foreign satellite TV equipment is continuing to fuel confusion among licensees.

The FAPL has been threatening to take action against the suppliers since the issue resurfaced with a number of high profile court cases earlier this year.

Many licensees are being tempted by the cut-price rates that suppliers offer for the decoders and cards, which allows them to screen Premiership football.

Richard Maynard, licensee at the First & Last in Pembroke Dock, Pembrokeshire, who has been approached by a supplier, said: "The thing is the company did not give me the 'hard sell', they just gave me the option. The situation needs clarification, like a test case to prove it one way or the other.

"The suppliers have a business to run, but hopefully it will be proved that it's legal which will leave a free and open market."

James Hilton, licensee at the Horseshoe, in Matlock, Derbyshire, said he was approached by a supplier through a cold call. "We can't afford Sky, but we are wise to the situation over foreign satellite equipment."

However Mr Hilton urged action. "If you stop the suppliers and prove it's illegal, then they know they will be open to prosecution."

On responding to criticism over the lack of action against suppliers, Dan Johnson, the FAPL's chief spokesman said: "We are working very hard, but we have to do it right. We are gathering evidence at the moment, which includes speaking to publicans that have been sold this equipment and what they have been told by suppliers."

Asked when the suppliers would be prosecuted, Mr Johnson said there was "no fixed date, but hopefully it will be sooner rather than later."

The Publican contacted one supplier, offering foreign satellite equipment, who declined to comment.