Listen
Blueprint for Scottish broadcasting revolution
08/09/2008
The Scottish Broadcasting Commission published its final report today. The main recommendations include:
- creation of a new Scottish Network: a digital public service television channel, funded out of the new UK settlement for Public Service Broadcasting plurality and licensed and given full regulatory support by Ofcom
- the BBC should secure 8.6 per cent of network tv production from Scotland (in line with share of population) and maintain a substantial network commissioning presence in Scotland and transfer the management of one of its four national tv services to Scotland
- Channel 4 should have a mandatory target for production from Scotland of 8.6 per cent and should base one of its commissioning departments in Scotland
- all broadcasters in the UK should review the performance of their news services in reporting the four nations in a manner that is accurate and relevant for all
- the Scottish Parliament should take an active role in considering the broadcasting industry and services audiences receive, with Scottish Ministers having greater responsibility, within the UK framework, for those operational functions directly affecting Scotland
- the influence and responsibilities of Ofcom Scotland should be strengthened and there should be specific representation for Scotland on the Ofcom Board at UK level
First Minister Alex Salmond said:
"I warmly welcome the Scottish Broadcasting Commission's report. It represents nothing less than a blueprint for a revolution in Scottish broadcasting, containing a range of very positive and exciting proposals.
"With representation from across the political spectrum, the Commission has taken forward its work in a constructive and consensual fashion, and addresses issues where we can make progress and which can be implemented now.
"The Scottish Government will take the report's recommendations forward where we have the powers to do so.
"And the report is a major challenge to the Westminster Government and the broadcasters themselves to step up to the plate - there can no longer be any possible excuse for inaction.
"The Commission has already achieved a great deal in focussing attention as never before on the long-standing failure of broadcasting institutions to serve Scotland's interests properly - a substantial benefit in itself. For example, it has been a catalyst in significant developments such as the BBC's commitment to increased network production in Scotland.
"The ideas and suggestions in the report reflect the importance of broadcasting to the cultural and economic life of the nation, which is the proper context for these matters to be debated and progressed.
"The key recommendation for the creation of a new public service Scottish digital network is of great importance, and represents a major opportunity to develop Scotlands broadcasting industry.
"The Commissions recommendations require action by a range of parties, and the Scottish Government will respond positively to the report within our powers to do so. But Westminster is currently in a position of responsibility, and must also respond in the same constructive spirit. The report offers the opportunity for a huge change for the better in Scottish broadcasting, and the Westminster Government and broadcasters must exercise their responsibility.
"I welcome the Commissions call for further discussion, and will be encouraging an early opportunity to debate the recommendations in Parliament. The Government will respond in detail to the report later this year.
"I would like to thank the Commission members for the time and effort they have put into the production of this report. I particularly want to record my deep appreciation to the late Ray Michie for her contribution not only to the Broadcasting Commission but her long and distinguished record of public service.
"The report's publication marks a significant and exciting time for broadcasting in Scotland."