Public service broadcasters discuss the future of the news
The Communications and Digital Committee takes evidence from senior television executives as it continues to explore the future of news in the UK.
Meeting details
Background
The inquiry examines the changing media landscape and what needs to happen to ensure a thriving, trusted and financially sustainable news ecosystem. Key areas include the broadening concept of what constitutes ‘news’, the impact of a decline in trust in traditional news outlets, the challenges around editorial decisions, and the impact of tech platforms and generative AI on news media business models. It comes amid the world’s largest election year, and ahead of an anticipated U.K. general election.
Possible areas for discussion
Possible areas for discussion with the BBC witness panel include:
- the role of the BBC in setting the news agenda;
- how the BBC is responding to challenges around technology, platforms, viewing habits and declining audience trust;
- issues around impartiality and the blurring of news and opinion; and
- how the BBC is ensuring efficiency drives do not undermine its ability to deliver trusted journalism that serves all audiences.
Possible areas for discussion with the ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5 witness panel include:
- how these PSBs see their distinctive role in the UKs news ecosystem;
- how they are balancing trusted news provision with the need to serve diverse audiences; and
- issues around delivering trusted and impartial news, including online.