BBC World Service: Sustainability

Baroness Kennedy of Shaws Excerpts

Tuesday 17th March 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab)]

As the right reverend Prelate says, the World Service does a very good job of this, as it does in so many areas of public life. Although it is independent of government, and it is vital that that remains the case, we talk to and work closely with it on areas of priority for the government, including freedom of religion and belief, language services and geographical priorities. It is right that we do so. I highlight the work being done in Afghanistan on the education of girls in particular, which is especially impressive.

[Baroness Kennedy of The Shaws (Lab)]

My Lords, picking up on the question from the noble Lord, Lord Alton, the risks of transnational repression are experienced by BBC journalists and by journalists from Iran International. Are the Government aware that, only yesterday, a leading commander in the Iranian armed forces warned that if “certain institutions and countries” continue to co-operate with Iran International, a broadcasting company like the BBC, locations and infrastructure linked to the broadcaster may be included in Iran’s military targeting? Are we doing anything about that threat?

[Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Lab)]

I will look into the issue that my noble friend raises. I was not aware of it, but I will make sure that officials and the relevant Ministers attend to that.