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

To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with representatives of News UK, GB News and News Media Association regarding the membership of the Expert Panel for the BBC Funding Model Review.

The BBC Funding Model Review is a government-led review, supported by an expert panel which incorporates a broad range of views from across the sector, providing advice and external challenge on the issues set out in the review’s Terms of Reference, which are available on gov.uk.

The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport appointed panel members based on their expertise across relevant sectors, including television, radio, news and international relations. The members were selected in consultation with industry representatives based on their experience and knowledge of wide-ranging issues at the heart of the UK media sector, such as the role of public service broadcasters, press sustainability, and content for children and young adults. Panel membership is voluntary.

Ministers received advice from officials on establishment of the expert panel, including on confidentiality agreements.