Now you can watch iPlayer on your hols

VIEWERS will soon be able to watch programmes on BBC iPlayer when on the Continent, under Corporation plans.

Bosses are planning to re-model the streaming service so viewers can access their favourite BBC shows in Europe.

The law currently stops licence- fee payers from using the service once they leave the UK. But new EU rules aimed at preventing broadcasters cutting off their audience have paved the way for greater access.

The Corporation is investigating a system to allow British licence-fee payers to enjoy the service without giving access to viewers living elsewhere in Europe.

Although plans have yet to be revealed, one insider said that the system could involve registered iPlayer users logging on with a user name and password.

The Brussels agreement – due to come into force next year – is primarily aimed at paid-for streaming services such as Netflix, Sky Go and Amazon Prime which will be forced to comply.

But national broadcasters can opt for their systems to join the scheme. Restrictions on e-books, games and music streaming will also be eradicated.

The BBC said: ‘We are interested in being able to allow UK licence-fee payers to access BBC iPlayer while they are on holiday in the EU.’