Policy background Miscellaneous Regulation and functions of the BBC
On 12 May 2016 the government published the white paper: A BBC for the future: a broadcaster of distinction, in which it was announced that Ofcom would be appointed as the external independent regulator of the BBC, as recommended by the independent review by Sir David Clementi. The Act amends section 198 of the 2003 Act to broaden the ability of Ofcom to regulate the activities of the BBC, giving Ofcom expanded regulatory powers in relation to the BBC’s activities. This is an enabling measure and the detail of what functions Ofcom will be required to carry out is set out in the BBC’s Charter and Framework Agreement.
	As part the summer 2015 agreement between the government and the BBC, the BBC agreed to cover the full costs of the so-called ‘over-75s TV licence concession’ and to take on policy responsibility for the concession from 2020. The Act transfers to the BBC the function of making provision for a concession by reference to age (for persons who are aged 65 or over). The Secretary of State will retain the power to make provision for all other concessions as set out in the 2003 Act.