Tim Davie presented a plan for an internet-only version of the BBC

BBC’s Director-General Tim Davie issued a rallying call to ensure the local media industry can prosper and keep delivering benefits for the UK in the decades to come, and presented a plan for an internet-only version of the BBC, focused around a simple, single brand in the UK and abroad.

Davie set out four decisive moves for a successful digital-led future: ensuring the UK is fully connected, so that everyone can get their TV and radio via internet in the years to come; champion a clear, market leading role for the BBC in the digital age; actively invest in the BBC; and move faster to regulate for future success.

Speaking directly to industry leaders, commentators and political opinion formers in a speech hosted by the Royal Television Society, Davie said now was the moment for urgent action and collaboration, to futureproof the UK industry, allow it to grow and flourish, and avoid repeating missteps of the past.

“I want to set out some of the choices that we need to make, and make the case for ambition. This will require the BBC, regulators, politicians – all of us – to work together and make clear decisions. To invest capital and set policy, deliberately, not simply live on hope and good intent. To create a bigger creative sector supported by strong public service media and a thriving BBC. In short, we have reached a defining decade for the future of this incredible sector and this wonderful country,”  Davie declared.