The BBC-speak language that comes up is both defiant and apologetic all at once. Perhaps the BBC locks out outsiders so they can continue asking $40 each for the NTSC DVDs they put out (they can ask that much but not receive, at least not from me). But let's say some guy pays about $240 for a UK passport that isn't really needed for anything right now, should that not give this theoretical individual special overseas privileges? Just asking....

They are missing out on a chance for some great tourist publicity, but this IS the BBC.