Written question asked by Angela Eagle (Labour) on Friday, 14 November 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 20 November 2003. It was answered by Baroness Morris of Yardley (Labour) on Thursday, 20 November 2003 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Dept for Culture Media and Sport

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what research has been commissioned by her Department into the gender balance of television sports coverage; and if she will make a statement. - (Holding answer 19 November 2003).

Answer: Angela Eagle: To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what research has been commissioned by her Department into the gender balance of television sports coverage; and if she will make a statement. [139568] Estelle Morris: [holding answer 19 November 2003]: This Department has not undertaken any research in this area because broadcasters are generally free to respond to the needs and preferences of viewers in making their scheduling decisions. It is a well established principle of broadcasting that Government only intervenes in the sports broadcasting market to seek to ensure that all viewers, including the lower paid and the elderly, have "free to air" access to listed sporting events.

Secondary information