The BBC currently obtains subtitling, audio description and signing services for the BBC’s broadcast television channels from an external provider (“Services”). This contract is due to expire on 31.7.2019.

The Services constitute audiovisual media services intended for broadcast within the meaning of Article 10(b) of Directive 2014/24/EU and Regulation 10(b)(ii) of the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and therefore.

Fall outside the scope of the Directive and Regulations. Nevertheless, the BBC intends to hold a competitive process for the reprocurement of these Services in due course.

For technical reasons arising from BBC R&D's investigations into the emerging technologies of AI (Artificial Intelligence) and Machine Learning Tools/Modelling for use across the media production, broadcast and publication chain, greater time is now required to thoroughly assess options and confirm the future, detailed service requirements.