The DCMS Select Committee, chaired by Julian Knight MP, has called BBC executives to give evidence on December 1st on their proposed cuts to local radio services which would see a move in investment from broadcasting to digital content and lead to around 48 job losses.
The consequences of these proposed cuts have sparked concern among many listeners who feel the local provision they value will no longer be provided if these cuts are implemented, as such, the Committee will also be examining the BBC’s wider strategy for delivering services locally.
Chair of the DCMS Committee Julian Knight MP said: “The planned cuts to programming have provoked genuine disquiet in communities up and down the country, where BBC local radio stations play a key role in providing local information that is increasingly unavailable elsewhere. As a public service broadcaster, the BBC must always have an eye on its duty to offer a distinct service and the Committee will be questioning corporation bosses to make sure they have properly thought through the implications of moving towards a more regional model and concentrating on digital services. Any changes must be in the best interests of listeners and licence payers.”
