I've never suggested dismantling the BBC, says John Whittingdale.

Culture Secretary John Whittingdale has denied the Government wants to "dismantle" the BBC and stressed there should be no political interference in the programmes the corporation shows.

He also said that suggestions that there was an ideological Tory drive to destroy the corporation were "just extraordinary".

Mr Whittingdale has sparked concern among some supporters of the corporation after saying that a review of the BBC's royal charter would look at whether the broadcaster should continue to be "all things to all people" or have a more "precisely targeted" mission.

And he has sparked speculation it may be told to cut back on popular programming which competes with shows available on commercial broadcasters and has raised questions about the future of the licence fee.


Press Association.
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