BBC Scotland and daily covid-19 briefings

Early day motion 882, tabled 14 September 2020 by Patricia Gibson (Scottish National Party). Signed by 15 members.

That this House condemns the decision of BBC Scotland to stop broadcasting the Scottish Government’s briefings on the covid-19 pandemic in Scotland; notes the consistent public interest in these briefings throughout this health crisis; is bewildered by the timing of this decision given that this is now a critical point when the public needs to be kept fully and speedily informed of any changes in public health advice as covid-19 cases begin to rise again; questions the BBC’s status as a public service broadcaster in the light of this decision given that these televised covid-19 updates are particularly valuable to older people, those with hearing difficulties and those who are not always able to access online information; is not aware that medical experts were consulted on the efficacy of this decision and the implications it potentially poses for public health; is concerned that this decision was made following pressure from both the Conservative and Labour parties; and is aware that many have questioned the political neutrality of this BBC decision given that the new BBC director general is a former Conservative party councillor.

Signatures by party: Scottish National Party 14, DUP 1.