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With licence‑fee income in decline, the BBC is reportedly in talks with US tech firms to outsource key tech and finance functions—part of a bid to save money quickly.
This restructuring could put roles in digital platforms and regional hubs at risk, potentially spinning off core services to external companies and eroding in‑house expertise.
Optimists argue the move frees up budget for programming, but critics insist it is a gamble that could limit the BBC’s strategic flexibility and weaken its ability to innovate.
Trade unions call for an end to secret dealings, urging the broadcaster to spell out how UK employment and public service commitments will be preserved.