A consistent feature of public broadcasting around the world are attempts to control or reduce its operation.  We see this in Australia with regular attacks on the ABC, along with political control of its funding and governance (Federal government of the day determines 3 yearly budget and selection of ABC Board members).  In the United Kingdom the status of the BBC is threatened by current political developments.  Refer to the following article - The BBC is facing its biggest funding threat yet.  I would also suggest that you consider the various roles of large public broadcasters such as the BBC and the ABC, not just for the UK and Australia, but also for the rest of the world. The world would be a poorer place without such broadcasters.