Local MP Katy Clark has outlined her concerns at a recent OfCom report proposing reductions in the provision of local news services to Scotland. The Report ‘Putting Viewers First’ was published on 21st January 2009 and includes to proposals establish a new Scottish Digital Network which would provide news and other programmes on national television and online methods. In the short term the report proposes that STV remain a public service broadcaster but with a reduction in it’s obligations in certain areas including news.
Speaking on the subject the MP for North Ayrshire and Arran said “I am pleased that the Ofcom report has decided to maintain stv as a public service broadcaster as I believe that it is vial that we do not simply rely on the BBC to produce public service broadcasts. I do however have serious reservations about some recommendations contained in the report including the potential cutting back of stv’s public service news obligations”
“People in North Ayrshire and Arran want to be able to get their news from a variety of sources and I would be concerned if STV cut its commitment to produce news and other local programmes. It is important STV and independent producers are properly supported so that they are able to make quality programmes for the Scottish and UK market”