I have put forward a parliamentary motion calling on the Government to give Parliament and the British public an active, direct and democratic role in deciding the BBC’s future. The changing nature of global politics and technology means renewed public service broadcasting can play a vital role to play in strengthening democracy.
The Motion reads:
“That this House notes the Government’s Green Paper on the BBC Royal Charter Review; further notes the changing nature of global politics and technology and the role of the BBC in strengthening our democracy; highlights that unaccountable political interference in how the BBC is run undermines public trust and the BBC’s independence; raises concerns that introducing advertising or subscription pay-walls on the BBC’s services risks reducing the public’s universal access to information and could undermine the BBC’s public service character; also notes that the new charter will be approved by the Privy Council; further raises concerns that the proposed charter and framework agreement will not be subject to amendment or vote by each House; and urges the Government to conduct the BBC Charter Review in a way that gives Parliament and the British public an active, direct and democratic role in deciding the BBC’s future.”