Full History Of BBC In Timeline From 1920

June 1920: First live public broadcast

In June 1920, Britain's first live public broadcast was made from the Marconi Company in Chelmsford, sponsored by the Daily Mail and featuring Dame Nellie Melba, marking a turning point in the public's attitude to radio despite official concerns.

October 1922: Formation of the British Broadcasting Company Ltd

On October 18, 1922, the British Broadcasting Company Ltd was formed, jointly owned by a consortium of wireless receiver manufacturers, to manage broadcasting under a single license issued by the GPO.

December 1922: Appointment of John Reith as General Manager

In December 1922, John Reith was appointed as the general manager of the British Broadcasting Company, a few weeks after its first official broadcast, shaping the BBC's mission to "inform, educate, and entertain."

1922: Formation of the BBC

In 1922, the BBC was formed and played a prominent role in British life and culture.

1922: Establishment of the British Broadcasting Company

In 1922, the British Broadcasting Company was originally established. This marked the beginning of what would become the British Broadcasting Corporation.

September 1923: Launch of Radio Times

In September 1923, the Radio Times, the world's first and longest-running radio and television listings magazine, was launched by Reith, priced at tuppence and quickly selling out its initial run.

September 1923: First Publication of Radio Times

On September 28, 1923, the BBC first published the Radio Times, the world's first broadcast listings magazine.

1923: Launch of Radio Times

In 1923, the BBC launched Radio Times, which was subtitled "The official organ of the BBC", marking the introduction of the first broadcast listings magazine.

1925: Crawford Committee Report

In 1925, The Crawford Committee Report recommended that the British Broadcasting Company should be replaced by a non-commercial, Crown-chartered organization.

1925: Crawford committee consideration of broadcasting's future

In 1925, the future of broadcasting was under consideration by the Crawford committee, which focused on ensuring unified broadcasting service and acquiring additional funding.

1926: BBC becomes primary news source during general strike

In May 1926, during the United Kingdom general strike, the BBC became the primary source of news after newspapers were temporarily interrupted, leading to a national audience for its broadcasting.

January 1927: Establishment of the British Broadcasting Corporation

On January 1, 1927, the British Broadcasting Corporation was established, with John Reith appointed as its first director general, adopting the motto "Nation shall speak peace unto Nation".

1927: BBC Takes Over Production of The Proms

In 1927, the BBC began producing the BBC Proms annually after music publishers Chappell and Co withdrew their support.

1927: Wimbledon Radio Broadcast

In 1927, the BBC's broadcast of Wimbledon began with radio, marking the start of the longest-running partnership in sports broadcasting history.

1927: Evolution into British Broadcasting Corporation

On New Year's Day in 1927, the British Broadcasting Company evolved into its current state and adopted the name British Broadcasting Corporation, solidifying its role as a public service broadcaster.

March 1928: Partial Lifting of Censorship

On March 5, 1928, Prime Minister Stanley Baldwin maintained the censorship of editorial opinions on public policy but allowed the BBC to address matters of religious, political, or industrial controversy.

1928: Inception of the Daily Service

In 1928, the Daily Service, a 15-minute religious service, was first broadcast on the BBC, continuing to this day as a regular part of the broadcasting schedule.

1929: Animosities between BBC and other media

By 1929, the BBC faced animosities with established media such as theatres and the recording industry, as comedians' agents feared broadcasting would reduce their value, while the BBC sought cooperation with recording companies.

1929: Experimental television broadcasts begin

In 1929, the BBC started experimental television broadcasts using an electromechanical 30-line system developed by John Logie Baird, marking the early stages of television development.

1930: BBC Symphony Orchestra performs all Proms

In 1930, the newly formed BBC Symphony Orchestra performed all 49 Proms.

October 1932: BBC Censorship of Police Protest Coverage

In October 1932, the BBC censored its coverage of the Metropolitan Police Federation's protest over a proposed pay cut, broadcasting only official statements from the government.

1932: Launch of the BBC Empire Service

In 1932, the BBC Empire Service was launched, which was later known as the BBC World Service, marking the beginning of its international broadcasting efforts.

1932: Limited regular television broadcasts begin

In 1932, the BBC began limited regular broadcasts using John Logie Baird's electromechanical 30-line television system, marking a step towards establishing television as a regular service.

1933: Informal Information Exchange with MI5 Begins

In 1933, BBC executive Colonel Alan Dawnay began informally trading information with the head of MI5, Sir Vernon Kell.

1935: Formal Vetting Arrangement with MI5

From 1935, a formal arrangement was made in which job applicants were secretly vetted by MI5 for their political views.

1935: Raymond Postgate describes BBC censorship

In 1935, Raymond Postgate recounted that BBC broadcasters were expected to submit drafts for approval, tailoring content for modest, church-going elderly or clergy members, highlighting the stringent content control at the time.

1935: Censorship of Oswald Mosley and Harry Pollitt

In 1935, the BBC, in conjunction with the Foreign Office, censored broadcasts by Oswald Mosley of the British Union of Fascists and Harry Pollitt of the Communist Party of Great Britain, suspending and ultimately cancelling their series of political broadcasts.

November 1936: Start of BBC Television Service

In November 1936, the BBC Television Service started from Alexandra Palace, alternating between the Baird mechanical system and the Marconi-EMI electronic system, marking the beginning of regular television broadcasting with advanced technology.

1936: Reginald Foort's role as BBC Staff Theatre Organist

From 1936 to 1938, Reginald Foort held the official role of BBC Staff Theatre Organist, contributing to the popularity of music broadcasts, especially at St George's Hall, London.

1936: Reith's lobbying in South Africa

In 1936, John Reith lobbied in South Africa for state-run radio programs, which were accepted by the South African Parliament.

1936: Introduction of "High-Definition" Television Service

In 1936, the BBC introduced the world's first "high-definition" 405-line television service.

1937: MI5 security officer stationed at BBC

In 1937, an MI5 security officer was permanently stationed within the BBC to identify and blacklist potential political subversives deemed a security risk.

1937: Wimbledon Television Broadcast

In 1937, the BBC's broadcast of Wimbledon continued with television, marking the ongoing longest-running partnership in sports broadcasting history.

1938: Reginald Foort's role as BBC Staff Theatre Organist ends

From 1936 to 1938, Reginald Foort held the official role of BBC Staff Theatre Organist, contributing to the popularity of music broadcasts, especially at St George's Hall, London.

1938: Censorship apparatus designed

In 1938, John Reith and the UK Government designed a censorship apparatus for the BBC in preparation for WWII, through the Ministry of Information.

1938: Censorship of Winston Churchill

In 1938, Winston Churchill's proposed series of talks regarding British domestic and foreign politics and affairs was censored by the BBC.

September 1939: Suspension of television broadcasting due to World War II

On September 1, 1939, television broadcasting was suspended due to World War II, and BBC Radio broadcasters kept the nation's spirits up.

1939: Unification of British Empire's radio waves attempted

From 1935 to 1939, the BBC attempted to unite the British Empire's radio waves, sending staff to various locations, marking a period of expansion and cultural influence across the empire.

June 1940: Charles de Gaulle's speech on BBC

In June 1940, French general Charles de Gaulle, in exile in London, made a speech broadcast by the BBC, urging the French people not to capitulate to the Nazis, marking a significant moment of wartime communication.

October 1940: Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret's first radio broadcast

In October 1940, Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret made their first radio broadcast for the BBC's Children's Hour, addressing children who had been evacuated from cities, providing comfort and connection during wartime.

1940: Music by composers from enemy nations censored

By 1940, the BBC censored music by composers from enemy nations, including 99 German, 38 Austrian, and 38 Italian composers.

1941: Archbishops' broadcast on National Day of Prayer

In 1941, during the darkest days of World War II, the Archbishops of Canterbury and York broadcasted to the UK and the world on the National Day of Prayer from St Paul's Church, Bedford.

1941: The Proms Move to Royal Albert Hall

Since 1941, The Proms have been held at the Royal Albert Hall.

1942: Desert Island Discs Broadcast

Since 1942, Desert Island Discs has been broadcast on radio.

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1943: BBC Provides Radio Programming to BFBS

Since 1943, the BBC has provided radio programming to the British Forces Broadcasting Service (BFBS), which broadcasts in countries where British troops are stationed.

1945: End of Daily Service broadcasts from Trinity Chapel

In 1945, the Daily Service (a daily 15-minute religious service first broadcast on the BBC in 1928) broadcasts from Trinity Chapel in St Paul's Church, Bedford concluded.

June 1946: Resumption of television broadcasting

On June 7, 1946, television broadcasting resumed after being suspended during World War II, marking a return to normalcy after the war.

1946: Resumption of Television Service After WWII

In 1946, the BBC resumed its television service after it was suspended during the Second World War.

January 1948: Sports Report Broadcast

Since January 1948, Sports Report has been broadcast on radio from 5 pm on Saturday evenings during the football season, featuring the same theme tune by Hubert Bath. It is the world's longest-running sports radio programme.

1949: BBC Debut of Benny Hill

In 1949, Benny Hill made his BBC debut, eventually becoming the first British comedian to become famous via television.

February 1950: The European Broadcasting Union was formed

In February 1950, the BBC was among the 23 founding broadcasting organisations to form the European Broadcasting Union in Torquay.

1951: Publication of The BBC Hymn Book

In 1951, the BBC, in conjunction with Oxford University Press, published 'The BBC Hymn Book', intended to be used by radio listeners to follow hymns being broadcast.

1951: The Archers Broadcast

Since 1951, The Archers has been broadcast on radio and is the world's longest-running drama.

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1953: Panorama Broadcast

Since 1953, Panorama has been broadcast on BBC television and is the world's longest-running news television programme.

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1954: Adaptation of Nineteen Eighty-Four

In 1954, the BBC's adaptation of Nineteen Eighty-Four made a dramatic impact on a fledgling television audience.

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1955: Start of Independent Television (ITV)

In 1955, Independent Television (ITV) began operating, marking the end of the BBC's monopoly on television broadcasting in the UK.

1955: Competition to the BBC introduced

In 1955, competition to the BBC was introduced with the launch of Independent Television (ITV), a commercial television network.

1956: The British Academy Film Awards First Broadcast

In 1956, The British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs) was first broadcast on the BBC, with Vivien Leigh as the host.

1957: BBC acquired the Hulton Press Library

In 1957, BBC acquired the Hulton Press Library from the Picture Post magazine.

1958: Establishment of business manager post

In 1958, the selling of BBC television programmes was first handled with the establishment of a business manager post.

1960: Opening of Television Centre

In 1960, BBC Television opened Television Centre, a purpose-built television facility in White City, London.

1960: Establishment of Television Enterprises department

In 1960, the Television Promotions department (renamed Television Enterprises) was established under a general manager.

1962: Pilkington Committee report

In 1962, the Pilkington Committee report praised the BBC for the quality of its output and criticised ITV, leading to the decision to award the BBC a second television channel.

January 1964: Top of the Pops First Aired

In January 1964, Top of the Pops, the world's longest-running weekly music show, was first broadcasted, featuring the Rolling Stones as the first group to perform.

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August 1964: Match of the Day Broadcast

Since August 1964, Match of the Day has been broadcast on Saturday nights during the Premier League season.

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1964: BBC Two is the First Channel to be Transmitted on 625 Lines

In 1964, BBC Two was the first channel to be transmitted on 625 lines.

1964: Manx Radio Begins Broadcasting

In 1964, Manx Radio, based in the Isle of Man, began broadcasting.

1964: BBC2 launched

In 1964, as a result of the Pilkington Committee report, the BBC was awarded a second television channel, BBC2, renaming the existing service BBC1.

1964: Pirate radio stations emerge

Starting in 1964, pirate radio stations such as Radio Caroline, came on the air and led the British government to regulate radio services.

July 1967: BBC2 broadcasts in colour

On July 1, 1967, BBC2 started broadcasting in colour, utilizing the 625-line standard.

September 1967: BBC radio channels reorganised and renamed

On September 30, 1967, the BBC reorganized and renamed their radio channels, splitting the Light Programme into Radio 1 (popular music) and Radio 2 (easy listening), the Third Programme became Radio 3 (classical music and cultural programming), and the Home Service became Radio 4 (news and non-musical content).

1967: BBC Two Carries Small-Scale Regular Colour Service

In 1967, BBC Two carried a small-scale regular colour service.

1967: Launch of University Radio York

In 1967, University Radio York, under the name Radio York, was launched as the first legal independent radio station in the UK.

1968: Debut of Morecambe and Wise Show

In 1968, the comedy duo Morecambe and Wise debuted their show on the BBC.

1968: First Licence for Legal Radio Broadcaster Other Than BBC

Until 1968 BBC was the only legal radio broadcaster until University Radio York obtained its first licence.

November 1969: BBC One Begins Regular Colour Service

In November 1969, BBC One followed BBC Two in starting a regular colour television service.

November 1969: BBC1 and ITV broadcast in colour

On November 15, 1969, BBC1 and ITV joined BBC2 in broadcasting in colour.

1969: BBC Enterprises department formed

In 1969, the BBC Enterprises department was formed to commercially exploit BBC brands and programs.

1971: Debut of The Two Ronnies

In 1971, the comedy duo The Two Ronnies debuted their show on the BBC.

1971: Sound Only Radio Licence Abolished

Until 1971, a separate licence was required for sound-only radio sets in non-TV households.

1972: The Beeb Nickname Coined

In 1972, the nickname "the Beeb" was coined by Peter Sellers during a reunion of the 1950s BBC radio comedy The Goon Show, when he referred to the "Beeb Beeb Ceeb". Also, the song "Auntie" was released to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the BBC.

October 1973: First Independent Local Radio Station LBC

On October 8, 1973, the BBC's monopoly on radio services ended with the launch of the UK's first Independent Local Radio station, LBC, in the London area, under the control of the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA).

September 1974: Launch of Ceefax

On September 23, 1974, the BBC launched Ceefax, the world's first teletext service, on the BBC1 analogue channel.

1974: Ceefax introduced

In 1974, the BBC's teletext service, Ceefax, was introduced, initially to provide subtitling, later expanding into a news and information service.

1975: BBC Provides TV Programmes to BFBS

Since 1975, the BBC has provided its TV programmes to the British Forces Broadcasting Service (BFBS), allowing members of UK military serving abroad to watch them on dedicated TV channels.

1978: BBC staff goes on strike

In 1978, BBC staff went on strike just before Christmas, disrupting television and radio broadcasts.

1978: The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy Broadcast

In 1978, Douglas Adams' Radio 4 sci-fi comedy series The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, which spawned a media franchise, was the first radio comedy programme to be produced in stereo and was innovative in its use of music and sound effects.

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1979: BBC Enterprises becomes a limited company

In 1979, BBC Enterprises became a wholly owned limited company, BBC Enterprises Ltd.

1982: Broadcast of The Computer Programme

In 1982, the BBC started 'The Computer Programme' broadcast, running alongside the corporation's educational aims and programming.

1983: First Series of Blackadder

In 1983, the first series of the black comedy sitcom Blackadder, starring Rowan Atkinson, aired on BBC.

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1984: Blacklisted Organizations Identified

A memo from 1984 revealed blacklisted organizations, including the Communist Party of Great Britain and other far-left and far-right groups, which could result in job application denials at the BBC.

August 1985: MI5 Vetting Exposed

In August 1985, The Observer published an article by David Leigh and Paul Lashmar, revealing that MI5 had been vetting BBC appointments and running operations from Room 105 in Broadcasting House.

October 1985: BBC to Stop Vetting Process

In October 1985, the BBC announced it would stop the vetting process, except for a few top roles and those in charge of emergency broadcasting and BBC World Service staff.

1985: Children's BBC (CBBC) launched

In 1985, Children's BBC (CBBC) was launched as a programming strand.

1985: 405-line VHF transmissions of BBC1 and ITV discontinued

In 1985, the 405-line VHF transmissions of BBC1 and ITV were discontinued to end support of older television receivers.

1987: BBC centralises operations

In 1987, the BBC decided to centralise its operations by the management team with the radio and television divisions joining forces together for the first time.

1988: Hulton Press Library sold off

In 1988, the BBC sold off the Hulton Press Library, a photographic archive acquired from the Picture Post magazine in 1957.

1988: Radio Times Christmas edition sales record

In 1988, the Christmas edition of Radio Times sold 11 million copies, making it the biggest-selling edition of any British magazine in history, highlighting the magazine's popularity and cultural significance.

1988: Record Sales of Radio Times Christmas Edition

In 1988, the Christmas edition of Radio Times sold 11,220,666 copies, certified by Guinness World Records as the biggest-selling edition of any British magazine in history.

1989: Security Service Act Enacted

Following the Security Service Act in 1989, vetting was restricted to those responsible for wartime broadcasting and those with access to secret government information.

1989: Peter Sissons began as news presenter at BBC

In 1989, Peter Sissons started his role as a main news presenter at the BBC.

1989: Final Series of Blackadder

In 1989, the fourth and final series of the black comedy sitcom Blackadder aired on BBC.

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1989: Security Service Act Acknowledges MI5

The Security Service Act 1989 officially acknowledged the existence of MI5, although the BBC's relationship with the agency remained a secret until later.

1990: Radio 5 launched

In 1990, BBC Radio 5 was launched as a sports and educational station.

1990: Vetting Further Restricted

In 1990, following the Security Service Act 1989, vetting was further restricted to those responsible for wartime broadcasting and access to secret government information.

1991: Radio 4 service to cover the Gulf War

Following the success of the Radio 4 service to cover the 1991 Gulf War, a live radio station dedicated to news and sports was launched.

1991: Auntie's Bloomers Presented by Terry Wogan

From 1991, Auntie's Bloomers, a BBC blooper show, was presented by Terry Wogan.

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1991: BBC Responsible for Licence Fee Collection

Since 1991, the BBC has been responsible for the collection and enforcement of the television licence fee as the TV Licensing Authority.

1992: Closure of ITV's Oracle

On New Year's Eve 1992, ITV's Oracle, which competed with Ceefax, closed.

May 1994: Launch of BBC Networking Club

In May 1994, the BBC launched its first official online service, the BBC Networking Club.

1994: Director-General also Editor-in-Chief

From 1994, the Director-General also became editor-in-chief, currently Tim Davie.

1994: Radio 5 Live replaces Radio 5

In 1994, BBC Radio 5 was replaced by BBC Radio 5 Live, a live news and sport station.

1995: BBC Enterprises relaunched as BBC Worldwide Ltd

In 1995, BBC Enterprises was reorganised and relaunched as BBC Worldwide Ltd.

1995: Formation of BBC Worldwide

In 1995, BBC Worldwide was formed following the restructuring of BBC Enterprises.

1997: BBC News 24 launched

In 1997, BBC News 24, a rolling news channel, launched on digital television services.

1997: Relaunch as BBC Online

In 1997, the BBC Networking Club service was relaunched as BBC Online.

1998: BBC Resources Ltd spun off

In 1998, BBC studios, outside broadcasts, post production, design, costumes and wigs were spun off into BBC Resources Ltd.

1999: BBC Knowledge launched

In 1999, BBC Knowledge launched as a multimedia channel with services available on BBC Text (later BBC Red Button) and BBC Online.

2000: Fawlty Towers Tops BFI TV 100 List

In 2000, the BBC's 1970s sitcom Fawlty Towers topped the British Film Institute's list of the BFI TV 100.

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2000: Surveillance Under Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act

The BBC carries out surveillance on properties under the auspices of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 to enforce the television licence fee.

2001: Auntie's Bloomers Continued

In 2001, Terry Wogan continued presenting Auntie's Bloomers.

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2001: BBC Technology Ltd formed

In 2001, the BBC's IT, telephony and broadcast technology were brought together as BBC Technology Ltd.

2002: BBC Broadcast spun off

In 2002, BBC Broadcast was spun off as a separate company.

2002: Television and Radio channels reorganised

In 2002, several television and radio channels were reorganised. BBC Knowledge was replaced by BBC Four, and CBBC was split into the CBBC Channel and CBeebies Channel. New digital radio stations were created: 1Xtra, 6 Music and Radio 4 Extra.

2002: Launch of BBC Digital Radio Stations

In 2002, the BBC launched five new digital radio stations broadcasting on DAB and online to supplement and expand on the existing stations.

2002: Renovation of Broadcasting House Begins

In 2002, the renovation of Broadcasting House in Portland Place, London, began.

2003: BBC Three replaces BBC Choice

In 2003, BBC Choice was replaced by BBC Three, with programming for younger adults and shocking real-life documentaries.

2003: Communications Act Defined Revenue Collection Process

The Communications Act 2003 defined the process by which television licence revenue is collected privately by Capita and paid into the government's Consolidated Fund, later allocated by the DCMS and the Treasury, and approved by Parliament.

2004: BBC Worldwide Owning Origin Publishing

In 2004 BBC Worldwide owned Origin Publishing

2004: BBC Contracts Out Technology Division to Siemens

In 2004, the BBC contracted out its former BBC Technology division to Siemens IT Solutions and Services (SIS), outsourcing its IT, telephony, and broadcast technology systems.

2004: Hutton Inquiry raised questions about BBC's standards

In 2004, the Hutton Inquiry and the subsequent report raised questions about the BBC's journalistic standards and impartiality.

March 2005: "Creative Futures" project launched

On March 7, 2005, director general Mark Thompson launched the "Creative Futures" project to restructure the BBC.

May 2005: BBC workers strike

In May 2005, more than 11,000 BBC workers went on strike over a proposal to cut 4,000 jobs and privatise parts of the BBC, disrupting regular programming.

July 2005: BBC Coverage During London Bombings

On 7 July 2005, during the London bombings, the BBC Online website recorded an all time bandwidth peak of 11 Gb/s. BBC News received some 1 billion total hits, serving some 5.5 terabytes of data.

2005: BBC Broadcast sold and rebranded as Red Bee Media

In 2005, BBC Broadcast was sold off and rebranded as Red Bee Media.

2005: BBC World Service Available on DAB in the UK

Since 2005, the BBC World Service has been available on DAB in the UK, a step not previously taken due to funding considerations.

January 2006: BBC Jam Content Available

In January 2006, initial content was made available for BBC Jam, a free online service designed to stimulate learning at home and at school.

April 2006: Blueprint for the future of the BBC published

On April 25, 2006, the blueprint for the future of the BBC resulting from the "Creative Futures" project was published.

May 2006: Launch of BBC HD

On 15 May 2006, BBC HD was launched, following a 12-month trial of the broadcasts.

2006: BBC Books sold to Random House

In 2006, BBC Books was sold to Random House.

2006: BBC HD launched as experimental service

In 2006, BBC HD was launched as an experimental service.

2006: BBC World Service Ends Thai and Eastern European Languages

In 2006, some services of the BBC World Service were reduced: the Thai service ended, as did the Eastern European languages, with resources diverted into the new BBC News Arabic.

2006: BBC Worldwide Owning Origin Publishing until 2006

Until 2006, Origin Publishing was owned by BBC Worldwide

January 2007: BBC released minutes of board meeting leading to resignation of Greg Dyke

In January 2007, the BBC released minutes of the board meeting which led to Greg Dyke's resignation.

March 2007: Suspension of BBC Jam

On March 20, 2007, BBC Jam was suspended due to allegations made to the European Commission that it was damaging the interests of the commercial sector of the industry.

July 2007: Launch of BBC iPlayer

On July 27, 2007, the BBC launched the BBC iPlayer platform, enabling users to watch and listen to most Television and Radio output live and for seven days after broadcast.

October 2007: "Delivering Creative Futures" plan announced

On October 18, 2007, Mark Thompson announced a six-year plan, "Delivering Creative Futures", to deliver "a smaller but fitter BBC".

December 2007: BBC HD officially launched

In December 2007, BBC HD was officially launched.

December 2007: Launch of Modular Homepage Layout

In December 2007, the BBC launched a modular layout for its website homepage, allowing users to customize the displayed modules and information.

2007: BBC HD Became a Proper Channel

In 2007, BBC HD became a proper channel, and screened HD programmes as simulcasts of the main network, or as repeats.

2007: BBC Trust Replaced Board of Governors

In 2007, the BBC Trust replaced the board of governors before being replaced by the BBC board in 2017.

2007: British Academy Television Awards Screened on BBC

Since 2007, the British Academy Television Awards has been screened exclusively on the BBC. The 2007 awards ceremony included wins for Jim Broadbent (Best actor) and Ricky Gervais (Best comedy performance).

2007: Previous Charter Arrangements

The 2017 charter changed the arrangements from 2007, where the Home Secretary was departmental to both the agreement as well as the license, and regulatory duties fell to the BBC Trust.

February 2008: Modular Homepage Becomes Permanent

In February 2008, the modular homepage layout launched in December 2007 became a permanent feature of the BBC website.

September 2008: Launch of BBC Alba

In September 2008, BBC Alba, a new Scottish Gaelic television channel, was launched as the first multi-genre channel to come entirely from Scotland.

2008: BBC News 24 became BBC News Channel and BBC Alba was launched

In 2008, BBC News 24 became the BBC News Channel, and BBC Alba, a Scottish Gaelic service, was launched.

2008: BBC Outside Broadcasts and Costumes and Wigs sold

In 2008, BBC Outside Broadcasts Ltd was sold to Satellite Information Services, and Costumes and Wigs stock was sold to Angels Costumes.

2008: BBC Channels Available Online Through iPlayer

Since 2008, all BBC channels have been available to watch online through the BBC iPlayer service.

November 2009: Broadcast of 'Doctor Who' animated episode on BBC Red Button

In November 2009, the BBC Red Button service broadcast the Doctor Who animated episode Dreamland.

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2009: Peter Sissons ended as news presenter at BBC

In 2009, Peter Sissons ended his role as a main news presenter at the BBC.

2009: BBC Holds Later Radio Times Listings Electronically

In 2009, the BBC already held later listings electronically, and scanned listings of all BBC programmes from the first issue in 1923 of the Radio Times magazine.

February 2010: Proposal to cut BBC's web output

On February 26, 2010, The Times reported that Mark Thompson, Director General of the BBC, proposed cutting the BBC's web output by 50% to scale back BBC operations.

March 2010: BBC to cut website spending

In March 2010, the BBC announced it would cut its website spending by 25% and close BBC 6 Music and Asian Network.

October 2010: License Fee Freeze

In October 2010, the BBC faced a license fee freeze, which led to subsequent budget cuts and restructuring.

October 2010: Television licence fee frozen

On October 20, 2010, the television licence fee was frozen until the end of the current charter in 2016.

November 2010: Launch of BBC One HD

On 3 November 2010, a high-definition simulcast of BBC One was launched, entitled BBC One HD.

December 2010: Atos Origin Acquires Siemens IT Solutions and Services

In December 2010, Atos Origin acquired the Siemens IT Solutions and Services (SIS) division from Siemens, thus also acquiring the BBC support contract.

2010: BBC One HD launched

In 2010, an HD simulcast of BBC One launched: BBC One HD.

June 2011: BBC Alba Available on Freeview and Cable in Scotland

Since June 2011, BBC Alba has been available to viewers in Scotland on Freeview and cable television.

July 2011: BBC Announces Technology Support by Atos

In July 2011, the BBC announced to staff that its technology support would become an Atos service, with Siemens staff working on the BBC contract transferred to Atos.

October 2011: Budget Cuts Announced

In October 2011, the BBC announced further budget cuts to reach a total reduction of 20%, following the licence fee freeze, which included cutting staff and moving others to MediaCityUK.

2011: BBC World Service Funded Through Licence Fee

Following the Government's spending review in 2011, the BBC World Service was funded for the first time through the Licence fee.

2011: Sale of BBC Magazines to Exponent Private Equity

In 2011, BBC Magazines was sold to Exponent Private Equity, which merged it with Origin Publishing to form Immediate Media Company.

2011: BBC Magazines sold to Immediate Media Company

In 2011, BBC Magazines was sold to Immediate Media Company.

2011: BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra Broadcast from MediaCityUK

In 2011, BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra began broadcasting from MediaCityUK in Salford, moving away from Broadcasting House in London.

2011: BBC Radio 7 became BBC Radio 4 Extra

In 2011, BBC Radio 7 became BBC Radio 4 Extra, with new programmes to supplement those broadcast on Radio 4.

2011: Peter Sissons Accusations on BBC's Bias

In 2011, Peter Sissons, a former BBC news presenter, stated that the BBC has a left-leaning bias at its core.

2011: Radio 2 Has the Largest Audience Share

In 2011, Radio 2 has the largest audience share (up to 16.8% in 2011–12) and Radios 1 and 4 ranked second and third in terms of weekly reach.

October 2012: Ceefax Service Ends

On October 23, 2012, the BBC's Ceefax service ended after running since 1974, prior to the digital switchover in the United Kingdom.

December 2012: BBC Completes Digitisation of Radio Times Listings

In December 2012, the BBC completed a digitisation exercise, scanning the listings of all BBC programmes from approximately 4,500 copies of the Radio Times magazine from the first issue in 1923 to 2009, to create the "BBC Genome project."

December 2012: Analogue TV Transmission Phased Out

As of December 2012, analogue television transmission was completely phased out in the UK, marking the entrenchment of digital television.

2012: Opening of Roath Lock Studios

In 2012, Roath Lock studios opened in Cardiff as the home of BBC Cymru Wales, specializing in drama productions such as Doctor Who and Casualty.

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2012: BBC Expresses Confidence in Atos Service Improvements

In 2012, the BBC's then-chief technology officer, John Linwood, expressed confidence in service improvements to the BBC's technology provision brought about by Atos.

2012: Bandwidth Peak After Announcement of London Olympics

In 2012, the previous day's announcement of the 2012 Summer Olympics being awarded to London caused a peak of around 5 Gbit/s on BBC Online.

2012: Renovation of Broadcasting House Completed

In 2012, the renovation of Broadcasting House, the official headquarters of the BBC in London, was completed.

2012: BBC Worldwide Sales Breakdown

Of BBC Worldwide's 2012/13 sales, 27% were centred on the five key "superbrands" of Doctor Who, Top Gear, Strictly Come Dancing, BBC Earth and Lonely Planet.

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March 2013: BFBS to Carry Versions of BBC Channels

From 27 March 2013, the British Forces Broadcasting Service (BFBS) began carrying versions of BBC One and BBC Two, including children's programming from CBBC, as well as programming from BBC Three on a new channel called BFBS Extra.

March 2013: Closure of BBC HD

In March 2013, BBC HD was closed and replaced with an HD simulcast of BBC Two, while some facilities were sold off and departments relocated.

March 2013: Closure of BBC Television at Television Centre

In March 2013, BBC Television ceased operations at Television Centre, a purpose-built facility that had been its base since 1960.

March 2013: BBC HD closed and replaced by BBC Two HD

In March 2013, the BBC HD channel closed and was replaced by BBC Two HD.

March 2013: Launch of BBC Two HD, Replacing BBC HD

On 26 March 2013, BBC Two HD launched, replacing the separate channel BBC HD.

2013: BBC News Relocates to Broadcasting House

In 2013, BBC News relocated to Broadcasting House from BBC Television Centre, consolidating news operations in one location.

2013: Launch of Drama Channel

In 2013, Drama, a UKTV network channel was launched by BBC Studios.

2013: Plans to sell Television Centre building in London

In 2013, as part of the six-year plan "Delivering Creative Futures", the BBC planned to sell off the flagship Television Centre building in London.

2013: Operating Expenditure Comparison

In 2013, the BBC had an operating expenditure of £4.722 billion, compared with £6.471 billion for Sky UK and £1.843 billion for ITV.

February 2014: Director-General Tony Hall Announces BBC Savings

In February 2014, Director-General Tony Hall announced that the corporation needed to save £100 million.

March 2014: BBC Confirms Plans for BBC Three to Become Internet-Only Channel

In March 2014, the BBC confirmed plans for BBC Three to become an internet-only channel as part of cost-saving measures.

April 2014: BBC World Service funding

Since April 2014, the BBC World Service has been funded by the annual television licence fee, expanding its reach and services, broadcasting in 28 languages and providing TV, radio, and online services.

October 2014: BBC Genome Project Opened to Public Access

On 15 October 2014, the BBC Genome project was opened to public access, allowing for crowdsourced corrections to OCR errors and changes to advertised schedules.

February 2016: BBC Three moves online

On 16 February 2016, the BBC Three television service was discontinued and replaced by a digital outlet under the same name.

2016: BBC Partnership to Develop 'Project Kangaroo'

In 2016, the BBC, in partnership with ITV and Channel 4, set up 'project kangaroo' to develop an international online streaming service.

2016: End of current charter

In October 2010, it was announced that the television license fee would be frozen until the end of the current charter in 2016.

January 2017: Current Charter Effective

On 1 January 2017, the current BBC charter took effect, outlining governance and regulatory arrangements, with the agreement set to expire on 31 December 2027.

March 2017: Launch of BritBox

In March 2017, 'project kangaroo' eventually launched as BritBox, an online streaming service showing a catalogue of classic BBC and ITV shows.

April 2017: Oversight by BBC Board and Ofcom

From April 2017 onwards, the BBC's activities are overseen by the BBC Board and regulated by Ofcom, ensuring its independence from direct government intervention.

April 2017: BBC Board Formed

In April 2017, the BBC Board was formed, replacing the BBC Trust. The board sets strategy, assesses performance, and appoints the director-general.

July 2017: Annual Report and Plans for Reinvention

In July 2017, the BBC released its 2017-18 annual report announcing plans to reinvent its output to better compete against commercial streaming services like Netflix. These plans included increasing diversity, investing in digital children's content, and increasing investments in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

2017: Total Income

According to the BBC's 2018/19 Annual Report, its total income was £5.062 billion in 2017/18 – and decreased to £4.889 billion in 2018/19.

2017: New Charter Instituted

In 2017, a new royal charter was instituted, requiring the BBC to publish an annual report to Ofcom and outlining changes from the 2007 arrangements concerning regulatory duties and departmental agreements.

2018: Total Income

According to the BBC's 2018/19 Annual Report, its total income was £4.889 billion, a decrease from £5.062 billion in 2017/18, partly owing to phased reductions in government funding for over-75s TV licences.

2018: Formation of BBC Studios

In 2018, BBC Studios was formed after the merger of the BBC's commercial production arm and BBC Worldwide.

2018: Owen Jones stated BBC is stacked full of rightwingers

In 2018, Owen Jones stated "the truth is the BBC is stacked full of rightwingers,".

2018: Public Opinion on BBC Political Partisanship

In 2018, a poll by BMG Research indicated that 40% of the British public considered the BBC politically partisan, with an almost equal division between those perceiving it as left-leaning or right-leaning.

2018: People Caught Watching TV Without a Licence

In 2018, according to TV Licensing, 216,900 people in the UK were caught watching TV without a licence.

February 2019: Launch of BBC Scotland

In February 2019, Scotland's new television channel, BBC Scotland, was launched.

September 2019: Launch of Trusted News Initiative

In September 2019, the BBC launched the Trusted News Initiative to collaborate with news and social media companies to combat disinformation related to national elections.

2019: Scottish Variation of BBC Two Ceases Operation

In 2019, the Scottish variation of BBC Two ceased operation and was replaced with the networked version in favor of a new BBC Scotland channel.

2020: BBC News Savings Target Announced

In 2020, the BBC announced a BBC News savings target of £80 million per year by 2022, resulting in approximately 520 staff reductions. There was also a reported £119 million deficit due to delays in cost reduction plans.

2021: BritBox Availability Expands

As of 2021, BritBox is available in the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, and South Africa.

2021: Savings Target Announced

By 2021, the BBC Director General Tony Hall announced a savings target of £800 million per year, approximately 23% of annual licence fee revenue.

August 2022: Emily Maitlis stated that BBC board member was an 'active agent of the Conservative party'

In August 2022, former BBC presenter Emily Maitlis stated that BBC board member Robbie Gibb, was an "active agent of the Conservative party" who played a significant role in determining the nature of the corporation's news output.

2022: BBC News Savings Target Deadline

By 2022, the BBC News aimed to achieve a savings target of £80 million per year, involving about 520 staff reductions.

2022: Richard Sharp Said BBC Has Liberal Bias

In 2022, the BBC chairman, Richard Sharp, acknowledged that the BBC "does have a liberal bias" and that the institution is "fighting against it".

March 2023: Gary Lineker Controversy

In March 2023, the BBC was at the center of a political row involving football pundit Gary Lineker, who was suspended and then reinstated for criticizing the government's asylum policy. The scandal was amplified by connections between BBC's chairman, Richard Sharp, and the Conservative Party.

April 2023: Richard Sharp Resigns

In April 2023, Richard Sharp resigned as BBC chairman after a report found he did not disclose potential conflicts of interest related to his role in facilitating a loan to Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

June 2023: Elan Closs Stephens Appointed Acting Chairwoman

On 27 June 2023, Dame Elan Closs Stephens was appointed as acting chairwoman of the BBC, leading the BBC board until a new permanent chair was appointed.

2023: Decline in TV Licences

In 2023, approximately half a million UK households cancelled their TV licences, leading to a decline in BBC revenue and a drop in the number of households paying the licence fee to 23.9 million.

March 2024: Samir Shah Appointed Chairman

On 4 March 2024, Samir Shah was appointed as the new chairman of the BBC.

April 2024: Television Licence Cost

As of April 2024, the television licence costs £169.50 per year per household in the UK, Channel Islands, and Isle of Man.

October 2024: Women's Super League Broadcast Deal Signed

In October 2024, the BBC, along with Sky Sports, signed a deal to broadcast the 2025–26 season of the Women's Super League campaign.

May 2025: Plans to Switch off Traditional Broadcast Transmissions

In May 2025, BBC director general Tim Davie announced plans to switch off traditional broadcast transmissions in the 2030s, transitioning to fully online delivery of programs.

November 2025: Ed Davey called for Gibb's removal from the BBC board

In November 2025, LibDem leader Ed Davey called for Gibb's removal from the BBC board because of Gibb's alleged role in the 2025 BBC editorial bias controversy.

November 2025: BBC Executives Resigned After Documentary Controversy

In November 2025, allegations by The Daily Telegraph that the BBC deceptively spliced a Donald Trump speech preceding the 6 January United States Capitol attack in a documentary led to several BBC executives resigning, including the head of the BBC.

November 2025: Resignations of Tim Davie and Deborah Turness

In November 2025, following the leaking of a report alleging systemic bias within the BBC, Tim Davie resigned as Director-General along with Deborah Turness as CEO of News within the organization.

December 2025: Government Considers New Funding Models

On 16 December 2025, the UK government considered a green paper exploring new ways to fund the BBC, such as replacing the television licence with either advertising or a subscription model.