63. This Government agrees with the Committee’s view on the vital role that accurate and impartial news plays in healthy and resilient media environments, including through the BBC World Service. As the Foreign Secretary made clear this March, “in a world of rising disinformation, the BBC World Service provides hundreds of millions with journalism they can trust and rely on. It offers clarity, accuracy and an independent voice where reliable information is increasingly difficult to access.” 64. This is why the FCDO has increased funding for the BBC World Service to £148 million per annum. This is a real terms uplift over the period. This is a positive settlement in challenging fiscal circumstances and reflects the importance we attach to the World Service – as mentioned, this Government has increased its contribution to World Service funding by 42% since taking office. 65. The BBC has welcomed this settlement, which will enable the BBC World Service to grow its audience reach over the period of the Spending Review. 66. This Government is confident that the agreed funding allocation – which was informed by a comprehensive assessment of strategic priorities, affordability, and value for money – will enable the BBC World Service to continue to operate effectively and efficiently, and to provide trusted, impartial news to increased global audiences. 67. We note the Committee’s recommendation for further additional funding to the BBC World Service over the next three years, drawing from the defence budget. We also note that the rules around what constitutes defence spending for the NATO target are very stringent. The BBC Charter Review is considering potential World Service funding mechanisms for the longer-term, and we cannot get ahead of that process. 68. Respecting BBC editorial and operational independence, the Government will continue to engage with the BBC on World Service priorities and performance, including on innovation and adaptation to evolving information threats. The Government highly values the work the BBC World Service does as an independent and trusted broadcaster, showcasing the UK, our culture, and our values around the globe. Russia