Question to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, whether the BBC charter renewal process will assess the impact of the BBC on developing (a) musical skills and (b) creative talent.

The BBC continues to hold a uniquely important role as a cornerstone of the whole of the UK’s creative economy, including playing an important role in the provision of music.

As part of the Charter Review process, the Government is looking at how the BBC can best use its significant public funding to act differently to other broadcasters and prioritise genres and activities that would otherwise be underserved by the market. We are also considering options to ensure that the BBC drives opportunities and good jobs across the UK, including in the creative sector and the arts.

More widely, the government remains committed to supporting a flourishing music industry. We will soon launch a £30 million Music Growth Package (2026-29) and publish a Music Plan, drawing together all that the government is doing to support the music industry - including the BBC's crucial contributions - to make the UK the best place in the world to create, play and invest in music.