Business On Television

Has Rupert Murdoch scored an own goal? The Money Programme (Sunday, BBC2, 7.30 p.m

Has Rupert Murdoch scored an own goal? The Money Programme (Sunday, BBC2, 7.30 p.m.) explores the possibility that the millions pumped into British football by the satellite firms may turn into a curse for the game with hugely inflated wages.

More and more local abattoirs are being forced out of business as pressure mounts to spend money and lift standards forcing retailers to buy beef from large plants. Ear to the Ground (Monday, RTE One, 8.30 p.m.) examines the trend which is forcing many small butchers to think again about their position. The programme questions the effect on the consumer and talks to John Tracey and his son who are investing more than £12,000 in their business to comply with new food safety regulations.

It's Your Money (Tuesday, RTE One, 8 p.m.) examines the future of the futures market at the IFSC. Trader Brian Noble provides a unique insight into the market. The programme also looks at the National Lottery and credit card charges.

Taking a slightly different look at credit cards Behind the Crime: Credit Crooks, (Channel 4, Tuesday, 9 p.m.) investigates the fraud which costs Britain around £135 million (€214 million) a year. Nigel Richardson has made a living by buying luxury goods on other people's credit which he sells on to his mates at knockdown prices. He has discovered that even if a card is cancelled in the country of origin it may still be used abroad.

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Shirley and Mickey Morris-Davies don't talk about money. Shirley can't control her spending and Mickey can't control Shirley. Your Money or Your Life (Wednesday, BBC2, 8 p.m.) talks to the couple who have racked up debt of £31,000.

Les Freestone has been in the funeral business for 30 years, laying to rest 8,000 people. In Great Undertakings (Channel 4, Thursday, 9 p.m.) Les reflects on a trade which bears witness to life's great leveller.

sokelly@irish-times.ie