An independent review looking at how the BBC is governed and regulated has been announced by Government today, after a series of ‘bad mistakes’.
The independent review will form part of the ongoing process to review the BBC’s Royal Charter to make sure it remains a valued public broadcaster. 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.
Sir David has been asked to make proposals, taking account of the responses to the BBC Charter Review consultation, in relation to the model of governance and regulation of the BBC, the specific mechanisms of governance and regulation; and the way in which the BBC and the bodies that govern and regulate it engage with licence fee payers and industry.
Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, John Whittingdale MP, said: “Television is of huge importance to the nation – and the BBC lies at the heart of British television. However no-one could deny that the BBC has made some bad mistakes in the last few years. Savile, McAlpine, Ross-Brand, severance payments and excessive salaries have all contributed to a widespread view that the governance structure needs reform.
“So as part of the Charter Review process, I am pleased to announce that I am setting up an independent review into the governance and regulation of the BBC. It will be conducted by Sir David Clement, whose experience – including being Deputy Governor of the Bank of England and reviewing the regulation of legal services in England and Wales – makes him uniquely placed to undertake this review.
“The BBC is a world class broadcaster and requires effective governance and regulation. I look forward to conducting this review.”
A report is due in early 2016.
