Jo Stevens MP, Labour’s Shadow Digital, Culture, Media & Sports Secretary, responding to the BBC’s Annual Plan said:

“In a highly competitive environment, the BBC has proved itself an important and trusted news source, whilst helping to home-school our children and keep us occupied and entertained through lockdown.

“But relentless Government attacks are taking their toll. Having already had to save over £600m annually since 2016, additional costs of COVID-19 and the Tories’ broken promise in ending Government funding for free TV licences for over 75s mean even tougher times ahead.

“We shouldn’t ever forget the important role the BBC has played in keeping us informed and safe in these unprecedented times.”