British Broadcasting Corporation

HC Deb 18 February 1988 vol 127 cc702-3W

19. Mr. Pike

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received regarding the future of the BBC.

Mr. Renton

In recent months we have received many representations about the future of broadcasting, including that of the BBC. A number have suggested new methods of financing the BBC. On this our policy remains that we accept the view of the Peacock committee that the television licence fee should remain for the time being the principal means of financing the BBC, with the fee indexed to the retail prices index to encourage the BBC to use its resources efficiently and to determine priorities in carrying out its duties under its charter.