How much illegal streaming of the Premier League is costing the UK as government now urged to act

Illegal streaming of live sport is costing the UK economy billions, with Premier League football among the content being accessed through piracy.

A new report has put a figure on the wider economic impact and called for tougher action from the government and industry.

UK government urged to crack down on illegal streaming

The report commissioned by the cross-industry coalition BeStreamWise claims illegal streaming of live sport, film and TV costs the UK economy around £1.35 billion, while depriving the Exchequer of around £366m in tax revenue.

‘The Price of Piracy' also estimates that the lost economic activity could otherwise support around 10,000 jobs in the media industry, as relayed by CityAM.

Sir John Whittingdale, chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Intellectual Property, described the findings as a “wake-up call” and called for government and Parliament to work with the industry to enforce existing laws and protect jobs and investment.

Premier League football is a significant part of the piracy problem, with the league among the most active sports rights holders in tackling illegal streaming devices and services.

Sky's group director of anti-piracy Matt Hibbert also warned that piracy does not only affect broadcasters and sports organisations, but can expose consumers to scams, fraud and identity theft.

The report is calling for a coordinated crackdown on both the availability and visibility of illegal streaming services as viewing habits and piracy methods continue to evolve.

FGG says: Piracy problem driven by affordability issues

There is little doubt that illegal streaming needs to be tackled, particularly when it exposes supporters to potential fraud while taking legitimate revenue away from broadcasters, clubs and the wider creative industries.

At the same time, the industry should look closely at why so many fans are turning to illegal streams, with the cost of buying the various subscriptions needed to watch Premier League football legally becoming a major part of the conversation.

A stronger crackdown makes sense, but making legitimate access simpler and more affordable could also go a long way towards reducing the demand for piracy in the first place.