The federal opposition has told free-to-air television networks it intends to block in the Senate a promised $250 million reduction in licence fees because it doesn't believe the government has adequately explained why it's needed.

The Sydney Morning Herald says it's learned that shadow treasurer Joe Hockey told the Seven Network chief executive David Leckie on Friday.

Afterwards, Mr Hockey is understood to have met representatives from the pay-TV industry to hear its concerns.

Pay TV believes too many government decisions, including the $250 million fee reduction, are skewed in favour of free-to-air.

Communications Minister Stephen Conroy, who went skiing with Seven Network boss Kerry Stokes in January, was accused on Friday by Opposition Leader Tony Abbott of "doing a special deal" for Mr Stokes.

Mr Hockey said the government kept changing the reasons for the decision.

Senator Conroy questioned Mr Abbott's secret meeting with News Corporation chairman Rupert Murdoch last weekend.