Policy

The BBC

The government has begun the BBC’s “Charter Review” - a 2-year process that consider the public purpose and direction of the BBC, as well as funding models, before granting it a new Royal Charter in 2027, which is the legal basis for the BBC to exist. 

Page actions

You are here

The Royal Charter Review 

The government has begun the BBC’s “Charter Review” – a 2-year process that consider the public purpose and direction of the BBC, as well as funding models, before granting it a new Royal Charter in 2027, which is the legal basis for the BBC to exist. 

It is clear the BBC is facing huge funding challenges. Maintaining the status quo is not enough and cuts to funding would leave lasting damage on our music sector. The Music industry and the BBC have a symbiotic relationship that must be protected. As the largest employer of musicians and the largest commissioner of new music in the UK, the corporation is a critical part of our music infrastructure. In return, Music is an integral part of the BBC’s offer and is to the BBC’s ability to fulfil its public purposes. 

The ongoing charter review process must result in a sustainable funding settlement that allows the BBC to increase, not decrease investment in music at all levels.  

Why the BBC matters for our music industry 

The BBC has legal requirements under the Charter Agreement and Operating Licence to platform British, new and specialist music that are not replicated in the commercial sector. 

  • It fulfils an important Research and Development (R&D) function for British music  

BBC Introducing is one of the most significant talent discovery platforms in the UK. It provides emerging artists and songwriters from across the country with airplay, editorial support, festival slots and national exposure at a critical stage in their careers. Twenty-five artists that began on BBC Introducing have gone on to have number one albums, including Adele and Florence and the Machine. 

Other talent competitions such as BBC Young Musician, BBC Young Trad Musician and BBC Radio 3 Young Generation Artists provide life-changing development opportunities and global platforms for new talent. 

  • It provides a breadth and diversity of music output compared to commercial platforms 

The BBC broadcasts a far broader range of music than commercial radio. According to PPL data, in 2024, the BBC played 180,000 unique recordings across its radio network, compared with 147,000 on commercial radio. BBC 6 Music alone broadcast 38,000 unique recordings, far exceeding the commercial average of 2,500 per station. 

PRS for Music data shows that 138,099 unique works were played across all BBC radio stations in 2024, of which 76% were not played on commercial radio 

Moreover, the BBC’s specialist genre shows such as rock, folk and jazz, through to stations such as Asian Network, 1Xtra, BBC 6Music and Radio 3 as well as output in the UK’s minority languages ensures that the full spectrum of UK music is represented. 

  • It amplifies UK global soft power. 

In 2024, Glastonbury headline sets from artists including Dua Lipa and Coldplay, were available live internationally for the first time on BBC.com. These are global cultural moments that elevate the UK’s international standing. 

Research by Spirit of 2012 and polling company Public First found that 74% of UK adults said that events that attract positive international attention for the UK make them prouder, and 69% of UK adults say that hosting events improves the global reputation of the UK . 2026 Data from the BPI shows that music is the cultural output the British public feels the UK can be most proud of. The BBC’s global reach helps to drive international attention around these major music events. 

  • It sustains specialist music ecosystems around the UK 

BBC Radio 3 acts as a lifeline for classical music, delivering over 440 live or specially recorded performances and 25 new commissions each year. In fact, 62% of Ivors Academy Classical Award nominees have received commissions from the BBC.  

The BBC’s employed orchestras provide thriving musical ecosystems outside of London, creating clear career pathways for musicians, engineers, and freelancers in local communities across the UK. 

The Path Forward 

This vital ecosystem will only survive if both the BBC and the Government agree to a sustainable public funding settlement as part of the Royal Charter review process. We need a model that allows for an even more ambitious musical programme, alongside a renewed focus on the music workforce. 

The BBC must act as a sector champion on pay, working conditions, and freelance wellbeing. It is vital that the BBC continues to look to the future and natures our fantastic homegrown talent to ensure British music continues to thrive around the world.