[thomalex]

I actually really like the idea of a linear Netflix (or other streamers’) channel. I could see the benefits in terms of providing a way for subscribers to discover their shows.

100%. I discover loads of programmes I would never have chosen just by chancing upon them while they're live. It's also reassuring to turn the TV on and something is on, not faced with a grid and silence like you are with streaming services. Linear certainly has a place.

In fact if I were the BBC I'd make the most use of their asset and put the linear channels playing live right at the top of the page when you first launch iPlayer.