BBC Sounds: Access from Abroad

Lord Foster of Bath Excerpts

Wednesday 14th May 2025 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Twycross (Lab)]

I read the director-general’s speech with interest but, as noble Lords can imagine, since it came into my inbox five minutes before I came into the Chamber I have not had a chance to reflect on it at length. I thought, however, that the way he invoked Reithian values, and his commitment to the BBC being part of the rebuilding of trust, was really important. We recognise how vital the BBC is as a key British asset that makes a significant contribution to national life, as well as overseas through the World Service.

[Lord Foster of Bath (LD)]

My Lords, the concern that has been expressed about these proposals, which are partly driven by financial considerations, illustrates just how popular BBC content is right around the world, providing, as the noble Lord, Lord Blunkett, said, real soft power. This means, for example, that BBC listeners are more likely to invest in the UK than non-BBC listeners. However, providing that content is getting ever more expensive and more difficult to fund. Notwithstanding the Minister saying how proud she is and how keen she is for the BBC to continue to do well, what assurances can she give us that the BBC will be given secure finances?

[Baroness Twycross (Lab)]

My Lords, for the BBC to deliver on its obligations, it needs continued sustainable funding. We are keeping an open mind about the future of the licence fee and will consider the best funding model during the charter review. Our priority is that there will be sustainable funding for the BBC.