Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy, has launched the once-in-a-decade review of the BBC’s Royal Charter, setting out plans to strengthen trust in the broadcaster and secure its long-term funding.
The Charter renewal process will examine how the BBC can remain independent, accountable and representative of audiences across the UK, while operating on a sustainable financial footing in a rapidly changing media landscape.
The Government says the review will look at how the BBC can continue to serve the public effectively as audiences increasingly move from traditional broadcasting to online and on-demand content.
As a major player within the UK’s creative industries, the BBC generates around £5 billion for the economy each year.
It is the country’s single biggest investor in UK content, employs more than 20,000 people and supports a highly skilled workforce across the nations and regions.
Globally, the corporation reaches 453 million people each week, showcasing British culture, values and journalism to international audiences.
Ministers say the Charter Review is an opportunity to futureproof the BBC so it can continue to thrive for decades to come.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said the review would focus on independence, trust and sustainability.
She said: “We want the BBC to continue to enrich people’s lives, tell Britain’s story and showcase our values and culture at home and overseas, long into the future.
“My aims for the Charter Review are clear. The BBC must remain fiercely independent, accountable and be able to command public trust. It must reflect the whole of the UK, remain an engine for economic growth and be funded in a way that is sustainable and fair for audiences.”
The Government has today published a Green Paper, launching a public consultation on a wide range of options for the BBC’s future.
Responses will inform policy proposals to be set out in a White Paper expected in 2026.
The review will focus on three linked objectives.
First, is ensuring the BBC commands public trust, with proposals including strengthening independence, reviewing the Government’s role in board appointments and updating the BBC’s Mission and Public Purposes.
Options also include giving accuracy equal weight alongside impartiality, improving transparency around editorial decision-making and introducing new responsibilities to counter misinformation.
The Green Paper also considers new duties around workplace conduct and staff protection.
Second, is sustainable funding, including potential reform of the licence fee, reviewing concessions and exploring additional commercial revenue.
Funding for the World Service and minority language broadcasting, including S4C, is also under consideration.
The third area focuses on growth and jobs, with proposals to strengthen the BBC’s role in supporting the creative economy across the UK.
This includes spreading commissioning power, investing in research and development, embracing new technologies and expanding partnerships with creative organisations and local news outlets.
Find out more by visiting gov.uk.
