Oral Answers to Questions

Greg Hands Excerpts

Wednesday 27th October 2010 Commons Chamber

[David Cairns (Inverclyde) (Lab)]

3. What recent discussions he has had with representatives of the broadcasting industry in Scotland on the Government’s plans for local television networks.

[Greg Hands (Chelsea and Fulham) (Con)]

4. What discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport on the likely effects in Scotland of the implementation of the Government’s proposals for local television networks.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (David Mundell)]

Both my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State and I have met broadcasters to discuss a range of issues. We also have regular exchanges on broadcasting with ministerial colleagues.

[David Mundell]

I am aware of the hon. Gentleman’s interest and expertise in broadcasting in Scotland. In answer to his question, I can tell him that an announcement will be made shortly.

[Greg Hands]

Local television is popular, and will make a real difference to communities in Scotland. The Minister will be aware that even the Scottish Government’s own Scottish Broadcasting Commission has concluded that television should remain a reserved matter. Will the Minister undertake to work with his DCMS colleagues to ensure that any framework resulting from the Shott review takes account of Scotland’s specific needs?

[David Mundell]

I agree with my hon. Friend. It was interesting to note that both the broadcasting commission established by the SNP Government and the Calman commission concluded that broadcasting should remain reserved. Nicholas Shott has visited Scotland, and has met various interested parties in the broadcasting sector there. I am sure that Scotland’s particular needs will be taken into account when his final report is issued later this year.