Viewing tastes of young audiences have changed considerably

Media secretary Tessa Jowell announced she is extending a UK-wide consultation to include under 18s.

The debate will form part of the BBC Royal Charter, due for renewal from 2007, setting out the corporation's objectives and obligations.

Younger participants will be asked what they like or dislike about the BBC, and how it should reach audiences.

Information will be distributed through schools and children's organisations.

"Children's programming has changed beyond recognition since the days of Muffin the Mule and Listen with Mother. And its audience has changed with it," said Ms Jowell.

"Broadcasters are more eager than ever to attract young viewers. This is reflected in the wealth of channels and services aimed at them.

Tessa Jowell is Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport

"This proliferation of channels empowers children and young people as consumers as never before. They have greater influence than ever before," she added.

Ms Jowell believes the charter review is the perfect opportunity for younger audiences to make themselves heard.

The review will also take in the role the BBC plays in encouraging viewers to take up digital TV before the proposed analogue signal switch-off in 2010.

"All of the public service broadcasters have a crucial role to play in bringing switch-over about," Ms Jowell said.

"None more so than the BBC, and charter review will need to reflect that."

She said digital TV must be "accessible and affordable to the vast majority" by 2010.

More than 50% of UK households now have digital TV, she said - but another 13% have said they do not want it, no matter what.

'Social function'

And 20-25% of the country will not be able to receive digital terrestrial signals - such as Freeview - by 2010, she said.

Speaking at the Oxford Media Convention, Ms Jowell highlighted progress of the public consultation on the charter renewal so far.

Nearly 7,000 people have visited the dedicated website and 450 questionnaire responses have been received.

"This Charter Review needs to look in the broadest sense at what the BBC should be expected to deliver for the public and for the nation as a whole.