In a wide-ranging speech, "Armando Iannucci urges BBC to monetise its programmes overseas and resist 'prejudiced' Tory attacks."

"The Independent" reviews his MacTaggart Lecture, here:-


"Delivering the annual MacTaggart Lecture at the Edinburgh International Television Festival, Iannucci said he owed "my professional life" to the BBC and that American colleagues were aghast at attacks on the BBC. "To them it looks like we're going mad," he said."....

"Use the BBC's name, one of the most recognised brands in the world, and use the reputation of British television across all networks to capitalise financially overseas. Be more aggressive in selling our shows, through advertising, through proper international subscription channels, freeing up BBC Worldwide to be fully commercial, whatever it takes, frankly, don't be icky and modest about making money."....

Iannucci attacked the panel which Culture Secretary John Whittingdale has appointed to consider the future of the BBC, noting that it contained "not a single person who's made a classic and enduring television show"....

In a parting swipe at Mr Whittingdale, who was also at the festival, Iannucci said: "If the British public feel they're being bullshitted at, if they get the slightest whiff that what's being done to the BBC is purely political, then I urge the relevant Ministers to leave the country."


The lecture may be read here.
Courtesy of allmediascotland.


The lecture may be viewed here- it lasts just over an hour.


According to "The Guardian", "Culture secretary John Whittingdale has invited Armando Iannucci to a meeting to discuss the future of the BBC and his MacTaggart lecture in which he accused ministers of in effect trying to kill off the corporation.".

There is more information about the invitation, here.