We have always had a problem in this country with shows being shown months or years later than in the rest of the world.
I was having a major problem with one of the networks here that was deliberately buying up programs and sporting events which it then refused to show, as a means of cornering the market. This kind of predatory practice completed destroyed any ethical qualms that I might have had.
We had similar problems with books and music. In the end, the government permitted "parallel imports", so that if they were not released after a reasonable time (28 days) then the exclusive distribution rights lapsed and anyone could legally import them from overseas. This had the desired effect, and incidentally made them cheaper.
This had a flow-on effect to TV shows and movies, as delays meant that people would watch them on DVD, and they are now shown more promptly. Doctor Who and Torchwood are being shown here somewhat after the UK, but before North America.
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I was having a major problem with one of the networks here that was deliberately buying up programs and sporting events which it then refused to show, as a means of cornering the market. This kind of predatory practice completed destroyed any ethical qualms that I might have had.
We had similar problems with books and music. In the end, the government permitted "parallel imports", so that if they were not released after a reasonable time (28 days) then the exclusive distribution rights lapsed and anyone could legally import them from overseas. This had the desired effect, and incidentally made them cheaper.
This had a flow-on effect to TV shows and movies, as delays meant that people would watch them on DVD, and they are now shown more promptly. Doctor Who and Torchwood are being shown here somewhat after the UK, but before North America.