Context
The BBC has secured exclusive contracts to broadcast Scotland’s men's international football matches, Northern Ireland and Wales' matches, and extensive coverage of the women’s team playing Germany. This raises concerns about accessibility for free-to-air broadcasters.
Question
The BBC has secured an exclusive contract to broadcast live all of Scotland’s men’s international football matches in the run-up to the 2026 world cup. It is part of a wider deal agreed with the European governing body UEFA, which also includes matches for Northern Ireland and Wales. On Friday night, the BBC will provide extensive live coverage on several platforms of Scotland’s women’s team playing Germany in the nations league at Tannadice stadium in Dundee. I am sure the Minister will join me in wishing them well, but will she also consider taking steps to safeguard these events for free-to-air broadcasters, so that our nations can enjoy them without paying expensive subscriptions?
Answer from The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Stephanie Peacock)
I join the hon. Member in wishing the team well. As I outlined in my first answer, the whole point of the regime is to strike a balance. We want sport to be accessible while recognising the importance that broadcasting revenue plays.
Not addressed: The minister did not provide any commitment to take steps to safeguard events for free-to-air broadcasters.
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