Communications Bill

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 5:06 pm on 3 December 2002.

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Photo of Tessa Jowell Tessa Jowell The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport 5:06, 3 December 2002

I should like to make some progress, if I may.

The Bill will extend the public service broadcasting remit to the BBC as well as commercial public service broadcasters. It is very important that the House understand clearly how this works. Except for the regulation of accuracy and impartiality, which will remain the responsibility of the governors, Ofcom will regulate the BBC under regulatory tiers 1 and 2 and will also have the power to fine the BBC for any breaches under tiers one or two. Under tier 3, the BBC will be required to publish an annual statement of programme policy, as will the other public service broadcasters, report on performance against policy and consider Ofcom's guidance. Ofcom will also report on the fulfilment of the public service broadcasting remit, including the performance of the BBC, at least every five years.