Review seeks 'riskier' shows

BBC Two is to develop more risky comedies under the corporation shake-up announced today.

Although the BBC’s strategy review has made headlines for its controversial proposals to axe digital radio stations 6 Music and the Asian Network, the document does contain good news for fans of new comedy.

The Putting Quality First review has promised an extra £25million a year budget for BBC Two from 2013, to ‘re-establish the channel’s reputation as the home of intelligent and ambitious drama, comedy and factual programming’.

The document envisages ‘a stronger role for BBC Two comedy, developing UK writers and performers with a unique but accessible take on the world, complemented by more risky, innovative comedies’.

However, comedy will be reined back on BBC Four, which will move its focus back on to highbrow arts and documentary programming. The channel is currently home to Mark Watson’s quirky quiz We Need Answers – recently criticised by a right-wing think-tank – and reruns of shows such as Yes, Minister.

Under the BBC review, comedy would also be given a higher profile Radio Two, as part of a drive to make the channel more distinctive than its commercial counterparts. The p;an is to ‘shift specialist and feature programming into higher-profile slots, including regular documentaries, live concerts, comedy and jazz’.

The proposals are now being opened up to a 12-week public consultation before the BBC Trust makes any decision.

Published: 2 Mar 2010