BBC Controller of Comedy Commissioning Shane Allen today announced the creation of an annual Ronnie Barker Comedy Lecture.

Each annual lecture will be given by a key comedy figure to share his or her experiences and to help inspire others, as well as addressing the present day challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

The BBC clarify: "Akin to the Reith and Dimbleby lectures, the Ronnie Barker Comedy Lecture's aim is to articulate why comedy matters so much, both on a personal level and how it helps to reflect and define our national character."

Details of the inaugural lecture and speaker have not yet been announced, but the 2015 lecture is expected to focus on satire, with the BBC saying:

"There is huge debate around satire because of events across the globe from North Korea and across Europe, and this lecture will be the chance for the comedy community in the UK to lead that debate and discuss what role comedy must play in a free society."

Shane Allen, Controller, Comedy Commissioning, says: "This marks the significant cultural impact of comedy in British life. It's a great opportunity for an influential comedy figure to share their experiences, opinions and challenges in keeping the comedy flag flying high at the BBC. We're proud to name the lecture in honour of BBC legend Ronnie Barker; it marks the huge contribution he made as one of the nation's most beloved writers and performers, whose work will continue to be enjoyed for decades to come."

Tony Hall, Director-General of the BBC, said: "People love great comedy. And, at the BBC, it's in our DNA. Our commitment hasn't wavered in 80 years. Across BBC radio, television and increasingly online we're backing new talent and showcasing some of this country's best performers."

Commenting on the other commissions announced today, Hall continued: "Coming soon on the BBC - Harry Enfield, Paul Whitehouse, Peter Kay, Rory Bremner and the brilliant Tracey Ullman. That's quite a line-up. And then, of course, there's Red Nose Day and let's not forget the return of W1A. You can imagine how much I'm looking forward to that..."

This year marks a decade since Ronnie Barker's death. The much-loved actor, writer and comic died on Monday 3rd October 2005.