Agriculture Bill - New clause 3

She noted that new clause 1 was intended to be discussed but due to the absence of Hywel Williams, she is calling George Eustice to move new clause 3 instead.

To be filled in based on the content of George Eustice's speech where he begins moving new clause 3.

Mr. Slaughter supported the amendment proposed by Rosie Winterton regarding protection from Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP), arguing that the 'carrot' approach is similar to widely supported anti-SLAPP legislation.

Mr. Malthouse questioned how the proposed changes would protect individuals who are not wealthy or part of a regulatory body from defamation or libel by powerful publishers, expressing concern for those without means to defend themselves legally.

Mr. Bottomley asked if there had been communication with specific media entities like The Guardian and Private Eye regarding the proposed amendment, seeking clarity on their stance.

Mr. McDonnell argues that the Bill's generalised list of genres could weaken specific areas such as science or religion, noting a decline in ITV’s provision of religious content since 2013. He raises concerns about diversity within broadcasting, citing under-representation of working-class individuals and ethnic minorities. For example, only 28% of employees were from working-class backgrounds compared to the UK population's 39%. He also highlights significant gender imbalance in senior roles and a decline in media literacy due to social media misinformation.

[INTERVENTION] Kirsty Blackman supports Mr. McDonnell's argument, citing a personal example of a young woman who was discouraged from becoming a television presenter because she wears a hijab and has never seen any presenters wearing one.

Argues for the inclusion of local TV in prominence provisions due to technological changes and future-proofing needs. Opposes abolition of section 40 as it has failed to encourage major publishers to join a recognised regulator.

Intervenes stating there may have been drafting errors regarding the inclusion of section 40 in manifestos, and discusses alternative incentives to encourage publishers to apply for recognition.

Agrees with John Whittingdale on the importance of avoiding government regulation of the press, suggesting historical context from 'The Laughter of Triumph' by Ben Wilson.

Reminds that section 40 is needed for redress against the press, citing low complaint success rates under IPSO as evidence of system inefficacy.

Proposes to replace 'appropriate' with 'significant' for PSBs prominence on online services. Supports increasing Channel 4's independent production commitment while allowing gradual changes. Argues for digital rights inclusion in listed events and free-to-air cricket matches. Advocates broadening local radio broadcasting licences and protecting press abuse victims through consultations.

Supports stronger guidance for Ofcom on PSBs prominence to reflect its importance.

Proposes expanding listed events and making major events available through public service broadcasting, not just linear TV. Advocates for Ofcom to ensure PSBs meet genre requirements explicitly.

Supports new clause 9 on children's television, emphasising the importance of understanding changing viewing habits and protecting investment in high-quality content. Proposes new clause 14 to address inconsistencies in age ratings for streaming services and calls for clear criteria based on British attitudes. Supports amendment 2 to clause 50 as it offers a way forward by incentivizing publishers to join approved regulators, protecting them from defamation cases and SLAPPs.

Intervened asking Thangam Debbonaire to accept the principle that Scottish, Welsh, and Northern Irish football fans should have the same access to their national teams as English fans.

Intervened emphasising the precarious state of the Gaelic language and its need for nurture.

Asked if a future Labour Government would repeal section 40 and replace it with an equivalent measure, questioning the consistency of their approach.

Mr. Streeter supports amendment 18, emphasising its importance for protecting children from harmful content on video-on-demand services. He cites examples of inconsistent ratings by Disney+ and advocates for clarity and transparency in age rating systems to maintain public trust.

Mr. Williams emphasises the importance of extending the domain of minority languages such as Gaelic in media, including television and radio, to ensure wider exposure and preservation.

Mr. Efford questions the funding mechanism of new clause 18 proposed by Ms. Blackman for compensating sports governing bodies, asking whether it would involve a levy on sports governing bodies or general taxation.

Ross argues that digital terrestrial television is essential for older people and those in rural areas, who may not have access to or afford streaming services. He cites research showing that most adults still watch digital terrestrial television, with 43% watching weekly. He highlights the importance of broadcast services for vulnerable populations such as elderly individuals and those living in poverty.

Jamie Stone interjects to support Ross’s points, emphasising the relevance of the issues in his constituency. He notes that many constituents cannot afford streaming services due to financial constraints.

David Duguid intervenes to agree with Ross and stresses the importance of broadband access in rural areas, noting that his constituency ranks low in superfast broadband coverage, highlighting the practical challenges faced by residents.

Order was called to correct an error in the debate, stating that a member could not refer to new clause 1 as they were not present during its movement. Rosie Winterton clarified that the hon. Gentleman could speak on new clause 15.

Made an intervention supporting his hon. Friend's position, citing recent difficulties at S4C as evidence that Welsh Government Ministers and the Senedd would provide better scrutiny and accountability.

Asked a question about the Conservative party's promise for a separate channel in their manifesto, referencing Gwynfor Evans' hunger strike.

Responded to John Nicolson's intervention by acknowledging the work of Gwynfor Evans and suggested that those interested in this period should watch a recent S4C drama on his life.

Supports new clause 6 and amendment 17 to ensure consistent age ratings across all video-on-demand services. Emphasises the trust parents have in the BBFC's system and its importance for future-proofing child protection measures. Highlights inconsistencies between platforms, such as Disney+ having a rating of 16 for 'Avatar' while another series with sexual coercion is rated nine-plus, leading to parents disabling security settings. Argues that it is Parliament’s responsibility to set minimum standards rather than leaving it to Ofcom.

Supports the theme of consistency for parents in managing their children's media consumption. Stresses the importance of a standardised view set by an organisation such as the BBFC to ensure that online age ratings are consistent with offline standards, preventing the media industry from pushing boundaries and exposing younger audiences to inappropriate content.

The hon. Gentleman is talking about the unanimity of opinion... losing the Six Nations, for example, which is currently shared with ITV, will be a blow both to the BBC and to the audience.

Will the hon. Gentleman give way? It is just that the hon. Gentleman’s extensive list of events neglects to mention cricket.

I thank the hon. Member for his generous remarks... which could ultimately improve the health of Scotland and the health of the nation.

Middle youth?

Mr. Green supports new clause 7 to ensure digital on-demand coverage of listed events is free for UK audiences, citing examples like Olympic and Commonwealth games where short-form content gained more viewers than live broadcasts. He also endorses amendment 78 to protect local digital TV services under the prominence regime, highlighting its historical significance.

Ms. Nici supports including provisions for local television that cater specifically to local areas and discussions relevant to them rather than regional coverage, emphasising the importance of local television in serving specific viewer needs.

Mr. Eustice asserts that there is no need for state-backed regulation of the press, referencing the existing royal charter on self-regulation established by his party.

Ms. Cates advocates for an age-rating system similar to what the British Board of Film Classification uses, arguing that it is suitable for regulating on-demand content given its expertise in verifying rateable incidents.

He supports the Labour Front Bench position on amendment 2 and highlights concerns about the effectiveness of current press regulation systems, citing examples such as Mandy Garner's experience with IPSO. He argues that repealing section 40 is not adequate given ongoing issues in press complaints handling.

He speaks in favour of amendment 1, which seeks to ensure Ofcom pays due regard to the Council of Europe’s framework convention for protecting national minorities when assessing public service remit. He emphasises Cornwall's unique cultural and linguistic identity and calls for the BBC to play a role in promoting this heritage.

Mr. Nicolson argued for the inclusion of Gaelic language in the Broadcasting Bill, highlighting its historical and cultural significance. He mentioned that the Conservative Party has previously expressed support for the Gaelic language but criticised the UK Government's resistance to making statutory mention of it. He also cited his personal connection to the language, stating that he is from a long line of Gaelic speakers, which adds weight to his argument regarding its importance.

Mr. Campbell intervened briefly during Mr. Nicolson's speech, questioning the politicisation of minority languages and suggesting that it can be divisive and counterproductive to their preservation.

Minister addresses concerns about outdated laws, technical amendments for clarity, and defends Government's stance on section 40 repeal. Mentions potential benefits to Scottish broadcasting sector while addressing specific issues like Gaelic language support.

Minister's intervention suggests amendment 2 would remove part of section 40, while new clause 3 would delay its commencement.

Calls for a proposal addressing digital and reproduction rights in the Bill to be considered by peers. Emphasises the importance of protecting national interests when selling broadcasting rights.

Corrects record that SNP promises aimed to protect governing bodies across the UK. Points out unfair disadvantage faced by devolved sporting governing bodies due to smaller TV markets, impacting free-to-air broadcasters' ability to secure rights.

The hon. Member expressed appreciation for the collaborative approach but was disappointed that the Government did not support certain amendments, including those on SLAPPs and section 40. She acknowledged the varied responses from broadcasters and stakeholders, and committed to working on these issues if Labour were in government after the next general election.

The hon. Member spoke about the importance of prominence for public service broadcasters (PSBs) as a key theme throughout the Bill's passage. He highlighted the example of the ITV programme 'Mr Bates vs. The Post Office' which raised awareness on an important issue, demonstrating PSBs' value in making content available to audiences that would not necessarily be covered by non-PSBs.

Blackman expresses support for the Bill and its efforts to balance rights and responsibilities. However, she raises concerns about the definition of on-demand services, suggesting it needs future-proofing to cover more modern methods of television viewing such as those on PlayStation consoles.

Green congratulates the Minister and Department for progressing the Bill. He highlights the historic nature of the legislation, noting it is 20 years since a similar bill was passed, and emphasises the need to future-proof regulations given rapid technological changes.

Gale briefly interjects with humour, expressing hope that if Sir John Whittingdale is still involved in media regulation in 2040, he will be presiding over the relevant proceedings.