Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by Diana Johnson (Labour). It was answered on Monday, 29 November 2010 on behalf of the House of Commons Commission.

Network Services (Regional News)

Question: I thank my hon. Friend for that answer. It seems strange that Members can watch subscription sports channels on the network, but cannot access our regional news programmes. Can this matter be considered again, because most of my constituents expect me to be up to date with regional as well as national news.

Answer: As a Scot, I understand the hon. Lady's problem. We have two systems. One is the television system, the main function of which is to provide annunciator services and the feed from the two Chambers. The second is the internet. The television system has only 23 channels. I am not sure how many regional news programmes there are, but it would not be possible to have them all on the system. However, they are all on the internet, which is part of the House service.

Secondary information