We do this by laying down long term strategies for the BBC, keeping track of progress to make sure they deliver on their defined objectives, and, if they don't, asking management to make changes on your behalf.

All of the Governors are part-time and come from a variety of backgrounds, bringing a wide range of experience. We're appointed by the Queen on advice from ministers following an open appointments procedure in accordance with Nolan principles, and we include National Governors for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, and another with special responsibility for the English regions. We also have an International Governor who helps set the framework for the BBC's international role and responsibilities.

Our main role is to ensure that the BBC remains independent of political or commercial interference and is run solely in the interests of viewers and listeners. So we agree the BBC's strategy and monitor its performance; appoint the Director-General and, with him or her, senior management; and, each year, publish an Annual Report to tell licence payers and Parliament how well the BBC has delivered on its objectives.

We're in constant touch with many advisory bodies representing viewers' and listeners' interests, such as the Broadcasting Councils for Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and the English National Forum (with twelve Regional Advisory Councils).

We also get a lot of useful feedback through things like reviews of output, seminars, research we undertake with audiences, and public events.