The BBC's Public Service Obligations

The BBC has FIVE specific public service obligations listed in its new Royal
Charter. One those five core responsibilities is the requirement for 'Bringing the
UK to the world and the world to the UK'. The Charter specifically states that
this obligation must be met across the BBC's output, not just in News and
Current Affairs, and specifically mentions documentaries. Thus the BBC has a
legal obligation to commission programmes on international subjects.

Storyville is the one BBC strand dedicated to this purpose. It is truly
international, not just in its content, but in its funding and creative
expression. No only has Storyville told stories from 68 different countries
around the world, but broadcasters throughout Europe, Asian and North
America provide funding for Storyville's films. In fact, it is the only place on
the BBC where the priorities and interests of foreign commissioning editors,
broadcasters and filmmakers consistently work hand in hand with the BBC. It is
international down to its finger tips.


We believe the BBC will be violating its legal obligations under its Charter if it
destroys Storyville's ability to commission programmes.

What is Needed?

S A V E
C A M P A I G N