The European Commission has asked Spain to withdraw state funding of public service broadcasting.

Since January 1, RTVE’s television channels are free from advertising. The Spanish government planned to compensate RTVE with funding from new taxes on commercial television, pay TV and mobile telephony. The European Commission has launched a review of Spain’s new radio law to find out if it’s compatible with EU regulations on state-supported public service. Until the issue is resolved, the Commission wants Spain to withdraw tax support of RTVE.