The BBC will urge ministers to end political appointments to its board as part of sweeping reforms to secure greater independence in negotiations over its next royal charter. The publicly funded broadcaster warns that maintaining the status quo will fail to protect its future, particularly given the recurring threat posed by the current 10-year charter review period.

The corporation is calling for a universal funding model similar to the existing licence fee, which raised £3.8 billion last year but faces declining revenues as viewers shift to streaming services. The BBC argues that political appointments and the 10-year expiry date create uncertainty and potential for interference, while advocating for greater public involvement through licence fee payer input and parliamentary scrutiny.

These reforms come amid controversy over alleged bias in BBC coverage, including allegations involving board member Sir Robbie Gibb and recent leadership changes. The broadcaster is also interviewing for a new director-general, with former Google executive Matt Brittin reportedly a leading candidate. The government consultation response will recommend modernizing regulation to help the BBC compete globally while maintaining editorial independence.