December 2015
Full-scale Debates Started ahead of the Charter Renewal
Takanobu Tanaka
Debates over the future of the BBC get heated prior to the expiration of the Royal Charter, the constitutional basis for the BBC, at the end of 2016. The Conservative Party won the general election in May 2015 and became the single-ruling-party for the first time in 18 years. Traditionally the Tories tend to be tough on the BBC as they aim to create smaller public services. The Conservative government issued Green Paper in July this year to summarize the public opinions on the BBC’s mission, the size and range of its services, and the licence fee system. In response, the BBC announced a series of its own proposed reform plan from September to October. The proposals present broadcaster’s intention over the next ten years including the development of services in the internet age, international broadcasting, and partnership with local media, and invite public opinions. The government will issue White Paper on broadcasting in spring next year, and the next Charter will be drafted after Parliament deliberation. The BBC will be celebrating its centennial anniversary in 2022. With materials from both sides, the government and the broadcaster, on table, the author reports the current development of the debates over the future of the BBC.