Speaking in Cambridge, he asked whether it was “sensible” for ITV and the BBC to broadcast news at the same time.
Advertisement
In a green paper issued earlier this year, however, the DCMS suggested three possible alternatives to this model.
“There is absolutely no prospect of the BBC being abolished”.
“If the next review finds that there is no case to answer, then it would be incumbent on Channel 4, the BBC and Government to guarantee a period of time where there would be no further threats in order to give businesses and investors confidence”.
Referring to reaction to the raging debate, he commented: “I was surprised it was interpreted as heralding the demise of the BBC or part of a Murdoch inspired agenda to dismantle it”.
He believes the BBC should include more “distinctive programming” and would review whether it “makes sense” to keep the bulletin at 10pm.
Mr Whittingdale has already warned of cuts at the BBC, saying that the organisation should make “the same efficiency savings as we’re asking every public body to do”.
Pact Chair, Laura Mansfield added: “Ofcom’s very recent PSB Review found that “overall, the system appears to be functioning effectively” so it is utterly astonishing that the Culture Secretary should call for them to yet again review the terms of trade”.
He said there was “a widespread view… its governance structure needs reform”.
He confirmed that the Department for Culture, Media and Sport is “commissioning independent research into some of the BBC’s impact on the market”. It will be led by Sir David Clementi, former chairman of Virgin Money and Prudential, and previously a deputy governor of the Bank of England. The BBC is a world class broadcaster and requires effective governance and regulation.
Advertisement
Clementi will submit a report setting out proposals for a regulatory and governance model for the BBC in the context of the Charter Review including key findings, conclusions, and any other supporting information in early 2016. Indeed the government insists that such a review will help make sure that the right framework of accountability, incentives, checks and balances necessary are in place so that the BBC delivers for licence fee payers.
