Bill tightens BBC reins

Legislation includes tougher regulation, fines

LONDON -- The BBC is set to come under tougher scrutiny and greater outside surveillance than ever, according to a draft communication bill expected to be published this spring by Tessa Jowell, Britain's cultural secretary.

The bill, which Parliament would consider later in '02, includes tougher regulation of the BBC, including fines. Legislation reps a bid to placate the private TV sector, which wants the BBC to face the same rules it does.

Jowell told the British press she wants to prevent a "slump in the volume of domestic programs or a loss of diversity," as well as lapses in taste and decency.

The bill would set up Ofcom, a regulator for the broadcasting and telecommunications industry, to replace the bodies that exist.

It is thought that Jowell will give Ofcom powers to impose fines and sanctions on the pubcaster if its board of governors fails to act -- a controversial move. The BBC is funded by a license fee paid by almost every viewer in the country, and it would be politically difficult for the government to take that money away.