§ Mrs. EllmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what stage discussions with the BBC World Service have reached in relation to their three year plan; and if he will make a statement. [67106]
§ Mr. FatchettThe BBC World Service is drawing up its strategic plan for the next three years. The BBC are considering their priorities in the light of political, technological and commercial developments, given the increase in World Service funding of on average 3.8 per cent. in each year over the 1998–99 level. We expect detailed proposals to be submitted to my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary soon.