Purnell warns ITV over regional cuts
- Published: 30 October 2007 08:03
- Author: Robin Parker
- More by this Author
- Last Updated: 30 October 2007 12:17
Media secretary James Purnell has warned ITV it should take account of public anger before proceeding with its regional cut backs.
Media secretary James Purnell has warned ITV that it should take account of the public anger they have aroused before proceeding with plans to cut back on regional news and regional programming.
Speaking in the House of Commons yesterday, Purnell said he had made it clear to Ofcom that the regulator should also take account of the strong feeling of MPs when considering ITV's proposal next year.
The minister said ITV's proposals would be "a change of the terms under which they got these licences."
He added: "Ofcom would have to look at this next year and I am sure they will take into account the strong feelings that are being expressed in this House about the matter."
Austin Mitchell, Labour MP and chairman of the NUJ parliamentary group, had claimed the cuts envisioned by ITV were contrary to the commitments made by ITV companies when they took on those contracts.
He told Purnell: "If they are allowed, coupled with the BBC's own cuts in regional provision, they will be substantially damaging to the provision of news and regional programmes in the regions.
"Isn't it time, instead of leaving this issue to the market or to a nervous Ofcom, the government reaffirm its strong support and commitment to public service and regional broadcasting in this country?"
Purnell replied: "I am very happy to make exactly that declaration. This House made it very clear in the Communications Act we expected regional television to be right at the heart of what ITV does."
Labour MP Chris Bryant added: "For decades, ITV companies were effectively given a licence to print money. People expect more than to see them run away from their obligations."
Mr Purnell said: "Local and regional news is at the heart of what people value about ITV. It would clearly be the best approach for ITV to find a way of making that remit profitable."
He stressed: "No decisions have been made. I'm sure Ofcom and ITV will listen to the strong voices that are being expressed on this matter."
