Contributions
1,036 recent contributions in Hansard
HANSARDLocal Radio Services: Discussions with BBCI recall the debate that has already taken place in this House on this matter, which was very widely attended. We heard from across the Chamber how much local radio is supported…15 Jun 2023HANSARDLocal Radio Services: Discussions with BBCAgain, that is a matter for the BBC. I would say that the decision to freeze the licence fee was to reflect the significant pressures on the cost of living for many people—it…15 Jun 2023HANSARDLocal Radio Services: Discussions with BBCThe BBC is under a duty under the charter to serve local communities. Obviously, how it delivers that is a matter for the BBC, but it is also subject to the oversight of Ofcom. I…15 Jun 2023HANSARDLocal Radio Services: Discussions with BBCI remain disappointed that the BBC is planning to reduce part of its local radio output. This is a matter for the BBC. Ministers met the BBC chair and director general towards the…15 Jun 2023HANSARDDraft Media BillThe hon. Gentleman is right that policy has evolved, as indeed have the Ministers responsible for it over the last few years. I agree with him: this is a very important Bill for…15 Jun 2023HANSARDDraft Media BillThe Government published the Bill in draft at the end of March to allow for engagement on provisions within it. The measures are complex, and it is right that we take time to…15 Jun 2023HANSARDPublic Broadcasting in ScotlandOf course we are happy to keep it under review. I suspect the hon. Gentleman is as aware as I am that the determination whether an event should be included in the listed events…15 Jun 2023HANSARDPublic Broadcasting in ScotlandI think 2034 is still a long way off, and this technology is developing fast. Obviously, as we look at the roll-out and at consumer behaviour, that will influence our decision as…15 Jun 2023HANSARDPublic Broadcasting in ScotlandI take it back if the hon. Gentleman did, but he is still there. One of the reasons the Media Bill is important is that the take-up of smart TV will continue at pace. I suspect I…15 Jun 2023HANSARDPublic Broadcasting in ScotlandI thank the hon. Member for Perth and North Perthshire (Pete Wishart) for obtaining the debate and for the work that he and his colleagues have done on the Scottish Affairs…15 Jun 2023HANSARDTopical QuestionsI look forward to discussing this matter further with the hon. Lady when I appear before the Culture, Media and Sport Committee in due course. The Media Bill is published in…15 Jun 2023HANSARDTopical QuestionsI congratulate my hon. Friend on his advocacy for his constituency. I am only sorry that I shall miss the Wallington music festival this weekend; I am sure that it will be a…15 Jun 2023HANSARDTopical QuestionsThe hon. Gentleman will be aware that we have had several studies on decriminalisation, and those looked specifically at the reasons why more women are prosecuted. There are a…15 Jun 2023HANSARDTopical QuestionsThe Government remain committed to press freedom, which is a cornerstone of our democracy. For the Government to intervene in the regulation of the press would run counter to…15 Jun 2023HANSARDMusicians Touring in EuropeWe are fortunate in this country to have some of the finest performers in the world, and I am keen to ensure that as many people across the world are able to enjoy their…15 Jun 2023HANSARDMusicians Touring in EuropeWe have reached a position where nearly all member states—24 out of 27—offer visa and work permit-free routes for musicians and creative performers, and we will continue to engage…15 Jun 2023HANSARDBroadband: Social TariffsThere are schemes that will ensure that if there is a lengthy take-out of provision, compensation will be available. I am very happy to look at the specific example of what…14 Jun 2023HANSARDTopical QuestionsFirst, I pay tribute to my hon. Friend for the work he has done to promote the use of smart data across the economy. The Minister for Enterprise, Markets and Small Business, my…14 Jun 2023HANSARDBroadband: Social TariffsThe Government recognise that this is a difficult time for families across the country who may be struggling with their bills. Social tariffs are already offered by 21 broadband…14 Jun 2023HANSARDBroadband: Social TariffsAs I say, the vast majority of providers offer social tariffs already. I am not sure what the broadband provider the hon. Lady refers to will be, but we will certainly look at…14 Jun 2023