4 March 2005
The dawning of Britain's wholesale digital TV era is just "around the corner", according to culture secretary Tessa Jowell.
Ms Jowell was speaking in parliament after the publication of a government Green Paper looking into the future of the BBC.
She told members that the UK needs to be aware and prepared for the imminent digital revolution and that a series of operating changes will be required.
"The BBC, like any public institution, needs to adapt if it is to serve its audiences and keep pace with changes in technology," commented the culture secretary.
"Our consultation showed that in a world of more choice and more variety than ever before, with a fully digital Britain around the corner, the public demand a strong and independent main national public service broadcaster."
One of the most immediate topical preparations could see the BBC scrap its board of governors in favour of two new separate bodies: the BBC Trust and Executive Board.
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