Local MP Seeks Assurances From Minister On Future Of Meridian

12.00.00am GMT Tue 7th Dec 2004

Questioning the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, local MP Annette Brooke has asked what discussions the government has had with Ofcom, the communications regulator, regarding the continued provision of high quality regional news by the South West's regional independent broadcaster, Meridian.

A recent Ofcom report on the programming of independent television has recommended a reduction in ITV's licensing burdens to enable it to compete more effectively with digital and satellite broadcasting.

MPs, including local MP Annette Brooke MP, fear that by cutting the regulatory commitments of ITV to provide 3 hours of regional non-news programming, consumers will significantly weaken regional identity and appreciation of local characteristics.

Commenting on this issue, Annette Brooke said:

"I want definite assurances from the Secretary of State that Ofcom's proposals will not diminish the quality of news broadcasting in the Meridian transmission area, as this is currently hugely popular with my constituents. I have written to the Minister for such confirmation."

It is of very serious concern to MPs that any changes in the regulatory requirements of ITV's programming by Ofcom will lead to a reduction in news services, currently set at a minimum of 5.5 hours per week.

It is vitally important that both BBC and ITV channels provide independent and high quality news reporting, despite the increase in competition from external channels, such as Sky and CNN. Many people living in the Meridian news region value highly their access to local broadcasting, which covers interesting and highly relevant local issues which would not normally get prime time attention.