Gaelic Broadcasting 2022-10-20
2022-10-20
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The MP is concerned about the sustainability of Gaelic language broadcasting and its cultural and social importance.
What recent discussions she has had with representatives of MG Alba on the future of Gaelic broadcasting. I am concerned about the sustainability of Gaelic language broadcasting, which is vital culturally, socially, and economically. Its future strength requires public sector broadcast status in legislation similar to Welsh language broadcasters.
My officials have been in regular contact with MG Alba since their CEO raised issues of sustainability and provided detailed proposals. I am examining whether the forthcoming Media Bill is the best mechanism or if the issues are better addressed through the future funding review of the BBC and subsequent charter review.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about whether the Media Bill will provide an opportunity to address these concerns was not directly answered with a commitment.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The MP highlights the cultural, social, and economic importance of Gaelic broadcasting and suggests that public sector broadcast status akin to Welsh language broadcasters is necessary.
Gaelic broadcasting is vital culturally and economically. Its future strength requires public sector broadcast status in legislation similar to Welsh language broadcasters. I suggest that the Media Bill will be an ideal opportunity to provide this status.
I am examining MG Alba's proposals in detail and trying to decide whether the Media Bill is the best mechanism or if issues are better addressed through the BBC funding review. I assure my hon. Friend that I am engaged in these issues.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about commitment on addressing concerns via the Media Bill was not directly answered with a firm timeline or mechanism.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The MP highlights the historical importance of Gaelic in his constituency and invites the Minister to see first-hand what needs to be done.
There was a time when Gaelic was spoken widely in my constituency; that is not the case today. I regard Gaelic as a United Kingdom treasure, not just Scottish. I respectfully suggest to the Minister that she might benefit from visiting parts of my constituency where Gaelic is still spoken, such as the Western Isles.
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his kind invitation and highlight the importance of Gaelic as a cultural asset, but I have not committed to visiting specific areas to address concerns about MG Alba's future funding and sustainability.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not commit to visiting the Gàidhealtachd or taking any direct action based on the MP's suggestion.
Highlighting Importance Of Gaelic
Not Committing To Visit
Response accuracy