Call for Evidence

The Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee announces an inquiry into ‘The future of public service broadcasting’. The inquiry will look at the future of public service broadcasting (PSB) within the wider media and digital ecology, including funding, content and regulation of PSBs and how this compares with alternative subscription, streaming services and Freeview services.

The Committee invites written evidence from those who wish to contribute to the inquiry on the following areas:

• Regulation: Are the current regulations and obligations placed on PSBs, in return for benefits such as prominence and public funding, proportionate? What (if any regulation) should be introduced for SVoDs and other streaming services?

• Representation: How would representation be protected if changes were made to the PSB model? How would the nations and regions be affected by changes to the PSB model? Is the ‘quota’ system the most efficient way to maintain and improve representation in broadcasting?

• Accessibility: How would changes to the PSB model affect the accessibility of services? How would a wholly internet-based service compare to the current PSB model?

• Impact: What value, if any, do PSBs bring to the UK in terms of economic (local and national), cultural and societal impact?

• Looking ahead: What should a PSB look like in a digital age? What services should they provide, and to whom? In what way, and to whom, should they be accountable? Is the term ‘public service broadcasting’ still relevant and, if not, what is a suitable alternative?

The Committee asks for written submissions in accordance with the guidelines by 5pm on Thursday 30 April 2020 (now further extended to Friday 19 June). Written submissions should not exceed 3000 words and should be uploaded onto the website in word format.

The questions set out are intended to provide a framework for those who wish to offer their views. Respondents need not provide responses to all questions. Equally, respondents can also highlight crucial issues that are not identified under these questions.