BBC Future

The UK government is considering a levy on broadband subscriptions as a way to fund the BBC, potentially replacing or supplementing the traditional television licence fee. The proposal would mean every household with an internet connection contributes to the broadcaster's financing, reflecting a shift toward digital viewing habits. The idea is likely to spark debate over whether non-BBC viewers should be required to pay for it.

Channel 4 has turned down the idea of a merger with the BBC but is open to a deal involving BBC iPlayer, according to reporting by Journalism Pakistan. The broadcaster is said to be considering closer cooperation on streaming instead of a full combination. The news has drawn attention in the UK as debates continue over the future of public service broadcasting and how the two broadcasters should respond to competition from global streamers.

A BBC Future article is drawing attention to homeowners swapping gas generators for personal house batteries as backup power during storms. One household profiled said they did not mind the cold, but just wanted morning coffee and the news back on. Commenters contrast the old, fuel-dependent generator technology with newer direct-current battery systems, and at least one reader is being identified as coming from the Fark community.

Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, has said a move to rejoin the European Union is among the options for the UK's future relationship with Europe. Speaking to the BBC, he argued the current Brexit settlement had caused "more harm than good" and called for closer ties. His comments are likely to reignite debate within Labour over Europe and whether the party should risk reopening the Brexit question.

Scotland manager Steve Ferguson says he hopes to build a long-term midfield partnership around Billy Gilmour as he shapes the national team's plans. Speaking to the BBC, Ferguson suggested the Napoli midfielder could be central to Scotland's future, a comment drawing attention from fans discussing the squad ahead of upcoming fixtures.

Fernando Alonso has explained his reasons for continuing his Formula 1 career, telling BBC Sport that he still feels as fast as anybody on the grid. The Spanish veteran's comments come as fans and pundits debate how long he can keep racing at the top level and what his future in the sport might look like.

A BBC News science and environment story about space has prompted discussion about working conditions beyond Earth. Commenters are urging people to organise into unions now, before an expanded space economy takes hold, joking that without collective bargaining workers risk being exploited like the 'Belters' in the science fiction series The Expanse.

Gerry Campbell, the character played by John Lynch who died in the first series of BBC police drama Blue Lights, is reportedly returning to the show. Reports say his comeback in future episodes will give fans closure, prompting discussion among viewers about how the drama will handle the character's reappearance after his death.