The BBC should have a remit for supporting the UK tech industry, says techUK in a response to the DCMS consultation into the Charter review.
According to techUK, the BBC holds a significant sway over the technology industry and UK consumers.
Chosen BBC technology roadmaps and distribution methods not only have an impact on the cost of devices and services enjoyed by UK consumers, but on the competitiveness and sustainability of the UK technology sector itself.
Due to the impact the BBC has on the industry, techUK argues, the broadcaster should have a tech remit in a similar such remit as it currently has for the UK creative economy.
Paul Hide, Director of Operations at techUK, said: "The BBC has played a leading role in the UK and global content creation, broadcast and distribution markets.
"It’s vital that it retains the funding needed to effectively support the UK’s thriving tech and media industries."
In addition to the technology remit, techUK also recommends in its consultation response that the BBC must remain an independent producer and broadcaster; should continue to focus on the 6 public purposes it currently operates; should be funded in a transparent and secure way; and the period of Charter must allow sufficient visibility and security of funding to enable longer term investment planning.
