← Back to Westminster Hall Debates

Public Broadcasting in Scotland

15 June 2023

Lead MP

Pete Wishart
Perth and Kinross-shire
SNP

Responding Minister

Not recorded

Tags

ScotlandCulture, Media & SportWomen & Equalities
Word Count: 8181
Other Contributors: 6

At a Glance

Pete Wishart raised concerns about public broadcasting in scotland in Westminster Hall. Response awaited from government.

Key Requests to Government:

The lead MP asked the government to bring forward legislation to ensure prominence for public service broadcasters on internet-enabled TVs, resolve disputes with streaming services such as Amazon's demands, and find a way to make Scottish football matches free-to-air broadcasting like in other parts of the UK. He also requested that the Government engage more closely on issues related to reserved broadcasting matters.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Perth and Kinross-shire
Opened the debate
The Scottish Affairs Committee's report highlighted the prominence of Scottish television content, difficulties with Freeview viewership in Scotland, and the issue of Scottish football matches being pay-to-view while other parts of the UK have free access. The committee found that public sector broadcasting in Scotland is currently doing well but faces challenges such as ensuring continued accessibility for Freeview users until 2034 and addressing conflicts between public broadcasters and global streaming platforms like Amazon.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.