Chris, you may wish to take a look at this, which appears to support my view in respect of linear channels.
http://www.tvtechnology.com/cable-sa...evision/224350
I do, however, agree with the point you make about quality of programming and your comparison with the United States. But whether this justifies making everyone pay for something they don't want, that is debatable.
I also agree that many people won't like a move to subscription tv, but there is no reason why they need to pay any more than they do now for the licence fee if this is abolished.