Borderers urged to make their voice heard in future of broadcasting debate

Borderers have been urged by MSP Christine Grahame to make their views known on the future of broadcasting in the region. Her comments follow the recent setting up of the Scottish Broadcasting Commission which is investigating the state of the broadcasting industry in Scotland and amidst growing concern that Border TV news coverage faces being axed. Ms Grahame said:

“The Scottish Government established the Broadcasting Commission to ensure that appropriate content such as news, current affairs and cultural and regional programming were enhanced.

“The Commission has established its own website to provide a one-stop-point of information for people concerned about the future of broadcasting in the Borders and the rest of Scotland. Borderers can provide feedback through the site and I would urge them to do so and so inform the work and direction the Commission is taking.

“Broadcasting in Scotland has suffered many years of under investment with most productions originating from London and the South East of England. The Scottish Government is determined to encourage greater levels of broadcast production across Scotland which has a vital role in supporting our democratic processes and cultural life.

“Real concern exists about plans to axe or seriously reduce the number of hours news from Border TV and I think a case can be made to ensure that this gap is filled by allowing STV to broadcast to the south of Scotland and specifically the Scottish Borders. Having news output for the region originating in Newcastle would be a seriously detrimental move and will outrage many Borderers. I hope they will make their voices heard and contact the commission.”

People in the Borders can visit the Scottish Broadcasting Commission website at www.scottishbroadcastingcommission.gov.uk

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