22
Accepted
The BBC explained that it considered a range of factors when deciding which TV and...
Conclusion
The BBC explained that it considered a range of factors when deciding which TV and radio outputs to close. This included factors such as: a. The reach and share of different markets. b. The digital maturity of different markets – for example some places such as Afghanistan have a low level of digital maturity and therefore it is important to continue to provide radio services. 38 Q 13 39 Q 5 40 Q 13 41 Q 14 42 C&AG’s Report, para 1.16 43 C&AG’s Report, para 2.3-2.6 44 C&AG’s Report, paras 2.14, 3.2 14 c. The level of audience need – consideration of the level of conflict and media repression in different places.45
Government Response Summary
The BBC agrees with the committee's observation (interpreted as a recommendation to improve processes). It is implementing significant changes by December 2026 to improve the documentation of decision-making processes for World Service savings, including establishing clearer criteria, redesigning governance forums, and mandating options analysis in business cases.
Government Response
Accepted
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
5.1 The BBC agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: December 2026 5.2 In line with the changes described in previous answers above, significant changes are also being made to the documentation of decision-making processes around the World Service’s savings programmes. 5.3 Subsequent to the NAO report, clearer criteria for savings decisions – in line with strategic objectives around digital transformation - are established and decisions are being better documented and held in a central repository for easier access. Decision-making and governance forums are being redesigned with roles within those forums being clarified and accountability for decisions strengthened. 5.4 Business cases at World Service level are also being redesigned to mandatorily include sections to demonstrate options analysis as well as alignment with strategic criteria. Clear frameworks to clarify the quality and level of inputs required into the business cases are being developed and communicated to teams.
Source
Committee
Public Accounts Committee
Inquiry
BBC World Service 2024-25
Report
72nd Report - BBC World Service
13 Mar 2026
HC 1299
Addressee Bodies
HM Treasury
Timeline
Recommendation age
0.4 yrs
Report published
13 Mar 2026