01.10.2026: UK Music Chief Executive Tom Kiehl has welcomed a report from an influential group of cross-party MPs on the future of the BBC – and has called on the Government to safeguard the BBC’s critical role in supporting the UK’s world-leading music industry.
He spoke after the House of Commons Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee published its report on the BBC Royal Charter Review on Thursday October 1.
The cross-party group of MPs said their report outlined a plan to secure the future success of the BBC as its reaches a “fork in the road” ahead of the renewal of its Charter which expires on December 31 2027. A future Charter will set out how the broadcaster will be governed, funded and regulated.
The Committee warned that leaving the Corporation to shrink and decline would impact the economy, social cohesion and democracy.
Their report outlined ways to maintain the universal funding of the BBC, grow new commercial revenue streams, improve efficiency and boost trust.
The Committee made a series of recommendations on how to maintain a means of universal funding, grow income through commercial activity and improve how the BBC operates.
UK Music Chief Executive Tom Kiehl said: “The BBC is the biggest employer and engager of musicians and a vital commissioner of new music in the UK.
“The Government needs to build on this welcome report from the House of Commons Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee to ensure the next Charter maintains Corporation’s irreplaceable role in supporting the UK’s world‑leading music industry
“Cuts to the BBC’s musical output would erode opportunities for emerging artists, diminish national cultural moments, weaken regional ecosystems and undermine the freelance workforce that plays such a significant role in the UK’s music industry’s £8 billion contribution.
“The Government must ensure the BBC’s public purposes continue to recognise its essential role in music, and provide a sustainable funding model so that the BBC can continue to work with us to build our world‑leading creativity at home and abroad.”
Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, Chair of the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee, said: “This is a pivotal moment for the BBC. Continue along the current path and we condemn a national institution to managed decline, squandering the immeasurable benefits it brings to our economy and society.
“For all its faults, the BBC drives our creative economy, supports our democracy through media sovereignty, and delivers world-class entertainment and moments that bring us together. Like a much-loved family member, we may criticise and grumble about the BBC but we would miss it enormously if it were no longer here for us.”
You can read the full report from the Committee here.
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