BBC Charter White Paper

Lord Pearson of Rannoch Excerpts

Wednesday 11th May 2016 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Neville-Rolfe]

I am grateful to my noble friend for his intervention. I think that the BBC charter has stood the test of time very well. The charter is not on a statutory footing because of the importance of the BBC and its independence.

[Lord Pearson of Rannoch (UKIP)]

My Lords, despite the slightly partial position taken by the noble Lord, Lord Grade, I have not understood from the Minister whether the Government will allow Parliament to change the White Paper.

[Baroness Neville-Rolfe]

The Government are publishing their White Paper in the usual way. There will then be a process through to the end of the year, when the current charter runs out and the new charter will need to take effect. Of course, the Government will take into account points made during that process. I am sorry I cannot cast more light.