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Future of Scottish broadcasting
27/02/2008
First Minister Alex Salmond delivered the annual Campbell Swinton Lecture to the Royal Television Society of Scotland arguing that Scottish broadcasting deserved a 'better deal' for the sake of Scottish society.
He said:
"Our vision - and our ambition - is nothing less than the long-term revival in Scottish broadcasting - and its emergence as a strong and growing industry. A global leader, enriching Scotland's economy and our culture.
"Through the work of the Broadcasting Commission and discussion throughout the industry, we can see a clear recognition of the need for a better deal for Scottish broadcasting.
"The challenge for Scotland - for the industry and the Scottish Government - is two-fold.
"First, we must hold the UK network broadcasters to their respective public service objectives - to ensure that broadcasting reflects and enriches Scottish society.
"And second, we must ensure that within our own country, public broadcasting speaks and listens to all of the people of Scotland - and reflects their different identities.
"Scotland is a rich and diverse society. As the composition and identity of that society changes, so too must public broadcasting.
"But I must also comment on another sphere of Scottish cultural activity. The fitba.
"In a little over six months, Scotland will begin its qualifying campaign for the 2010 World Cup. And after our impressive performance in the European qualifiers, millions of Scots will want to cheer our team on.
"However, even in Scotland, the only games shown on terrestrial television will be England's home matches.
"It is an extraordinary, and frankly unacceptable position. And it reveals a carelessness in the attitudes of some broadcasters to their wider responsibilities.
"Think of the literally hundreds of thousands who can't watch their national team compete in our national sport.
"Think of the older members of our community who can't go to the games or get satellite television.
"Think of the young in our society who are desperate to be inspired by a new generation of sporting heroes.
"You see, through that lens we aren't talking about just a game of football.
"Rather, we are talking about maintaining a cohesive society able, collectively, to celebrate its national identity.
"The imperative for action is obvious. Sporting success can be one catalyst for a united, confident, ambitious nation.
"Let me simply say tonight that when it comes to getting the national team back onto the screens of all our citizens - it can be done, and it must be done."