‘Aim Is To Create Integrated News & Information Division’

Font Size

Print

Feedback

Email

Discuss

New Delhi: : After months of deliberations, BBC has finally created a single integrated news and information division. And, from December 1 onwards, BBC World Service (radio), BBC World (TV) and BBC News Online have come together on the same platform. Also, BBC World has been incorporated as a subsidiary of the newly established commercial holding company BBC Commercial Holdings, following this exercise.

When the announcement was made last year, it was with the aim of creating a clearer, coordinated presence in the international media marketplace.

Now, after the formation of the integrated division, BBC World managing director Patrick Cross reaffirms that the primary objective behind the exercise is to improve the coherence of BBC’s editorial propositions. Excerpts from an interview with Dr Cross:

Patrick Cross

How will the integrated service improve the impact of BBC in the international scene?
The aim is to create a single integrated international news and information division to give the BBC a more consistent editorial style and presence in the international market, improving its impact with global communities and audiences.

Are there any plans of BBC World (TV) turning into a pay channel in India, after the integration effort?
No, BBC World, as confirmed when the digitisation programme took off in India, continues to be free to air.

What are the financials involved in the merger exercise? Is BBC going to gain from integrating services?
It is not a merger. As of December 1, BBC World Ltd is the operating company that runs the channel, as opposed to BBC Worldwide. But, the integration of our international news and information services is not a cost-saving exercise.