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Written question asked by Lord Austin of Dudley (Labour) on Thursday, 8 September 2016, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 13 September 2016 (named day). It was answered by Matt Hancock (Conservative) on Tuesday, 13 September 2016 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

BBC Alba

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, if she will make it her policy to include in the BBC Charter a commitment to broadcast a minimum of 10 hours of in-house Gaelic language programming on BBC ALBA each week.

Answer

During the BBC Charter Review public consultation we have listened to views across a range of issues in relation to the BBC, including Gaelic language broadcasting.

There is a successful partnership between the BBC and MG Alba for the delivery of Gaelic language broadcasting. The White Paper, published in May 2016, sets out the Government's intention to require maintain a commitment to minority language broadcasting through the new Charter.

The level of funding dedicated to BBC ALBA and the number of hours of in-house Gaelic language programming broadcast are matters for the BBC Board to consider when fulfilling this requirement under the new Charter.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
45668
Session
2016-17
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
BBC Royal charters BBC Alba
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk