All-conquering Auntie defends radio dominance.

The BBC rejects accusations that it prevents plurality in the radio industry after Q1 2008 Rajar figures reveal a record lead over its commercial rivals

The BBC has defended its dominance of the radio market, after recording its highest year-on-year share to date in the latest Rajar figures.

Radio Three was the only national BBC station to experience a drop in market share - from 1.2% last quarter to 0.9% - and reach since the last quarterly results, as the Corporation recorded an audience share of 56.8%, 15.7 percentage points ahead of its commercial competitors. Previously the greatest gap between the two had been 13.9 points in Q1 2007.

BBC audio and music research account head Jane Clancey defended accusations that the BBC's dominance of the radio market prevented plurality in the industry, saying, "The BBC has a responsibility to reach as many licence-fee payers as possible, but they are not forced to listen to the BBC."

Clancey described the BBC's impressive Rajar performance as testament to the skill of outgoing head of audio and music Jenny Abramsky.

Radios One and Two were the major winners for the Corporation, with Radio Two reporting its highest audience share to date of 16.5%, aided by Terry Wogan achieving his highest listening figures, with 8.1m people tuning in every morning to make it the most-listened-to breakfast show in the country.

Radio Two head of music Jeff Smith says the station's recent music specials, including broadcasting REM's live shows and its Van Morrison week, have emphasised the breadth and range of music played at Radio Two.