British Broadcasting Corporation (Oversight) Bill

A Bill to create an independent body to monitor broadcasting impartiality at the British Broadcasting Corporation; and for connected purposes.

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

14 November 2018

In Plain English

AI-generated

The Bill would create an independent watchdog to monitor the BBC's impartiality in its broadcasting. It would oversee BBC output, investigate impartiality concerns, and publish findings to inform Parliament and the public, with rules on how the watchdog is run and funded. The aim is to strengthen accountability for how the BBC handles news and other programmes.

Key Points

Establishes an independent watchdog to oversee the BBC’s impartiality.
Gives the watchdog powers to monitor, investigate impartiality concerns, and publish findings.
Sets governance and funding rules to keep the watchdog independent and accountable to Parliament.
Covers the BBC and related connected purposes to promote impartiality across broadcasting.

Progress

The bill is currently at the 2nd reading in the House of Commons, where its general principles are debated. It will move to committee stage for detailed scrutiny if it passes.

Who is affected?

BBC employees and editorsBBC management and governance bodiesBBC audiences and the UK publicParliament and accountability bodies (through oversight and reporting)

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - British Broadcasting Corporation (Oversight)

1 Jan 1970

Order for Second Reading on Friday 23 November, read and discharged. Bill withdrawn on Tuesday 13 November 2018.

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

British Broadcasting Corporation (Oversight) Bill | TrackPolitics