MUMBAI: UK pubcaster The BBC has published its Statements of Programme Policy (SoPPs). The statements detail, service by service, how the BBC will deliver its public service remit across its portfolio over the year ahead. The priorities outlined for 2006/2007 reflect what audiences have said they want from the BBC.
BBC DG Mark Thompson says, "The style of SoPPs has changed this year to reflect the BBC's transition to new governance arrangements. However, we have yet again demonstrated our ongoing commitment to meeting audience needs and to delivering excellence and value across all our services.
"We will offer diverse television, radio and new media content, as well as non-broadcast services such as the orchestras. Our efforts to provide the best in information, education, and entertainment are enhanced this year with innovative services like the Creative Archive and pilots such as BBC iPlayer [subject to approval by the Board of Governors, which will include a public value test]. For the first time this year we have a new public purpose: to help build digital Britain.
"Without exception every BBC service now provides some digital interactivity – whether podcasts or a website – designed to encourage and include everyone, and to expose us all to the benefits of the future. It is fitting, therefore, that this year's SoPPs are only available online. Regional, national and international network news bulletins, as well as rolling news on BBC News 2, remain integral to our programme offering and will continue to deliver precise and up-to-the-minute news and information.
"Across our channels, programmes like Robin Hood, New Street Law and an adaptation of the novel The Line of Beauty will demonstrate our commitment to new and original drama, and several comedies from new and established UK writers will launch over the year. Successful factual output like Springwatch will return to BBC Two, while Restoration Village will expand the concept of restoration from single buildings to villages around the UK.
"We also plan to pilot, on BBC One, a new weekday evening magazine show compiled from the nations and regions of the UK – a 21st-century version of Nationwide to complement our existing core news output."
