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STEPHEN DAISLEY: I know how the SNP bully broadcasters… I was a victim myself. And this is why they should NEVER have power over what we watch on TV
Holyrood voted 70 to 48 to call for broadcasting powers to be devolved from Westminster, with SNP politicians arguing that Scottish broadcasting should better reflect life in Scotland. The columnist sees the proposal as a bid for political influence over broadcasters, warning that it could threaten their independence.
The debate followed plans to move BBC Scotland from a linear television channel to a digital-first service on iPlayer; the article says the evening news will end and redundancies are expected, although more people already watch the channel on iPlayer than on television. The writer criticises BBC management’s cuts while arguing that the SNP should not control broadcasting policy, citing his account of being removed from a combined editorial and commentary role at STV after two SNP MPs objected to his journalism.
In short
- Holyrood voted 70 to 48 for devolved broadcasting powers.
- BBC Scotland is planned to become digital-first.
- The columnist warns against political control of broadcasters.
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The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Devolving broadcasting powers could give Scotland more say over services that reflect its communities, culture and public priorities, especially as BBC Scotland shifts towards digital programming and cuts its evening news. Supporters could argue that decisions made closer to Scottish audiences would improve accountability and help ensure broadcasting serves the whole country.
The case against
Broadcasting decisions should remain at arm’s length from politicians so that editorial choices are protected from pressure by whichever party holds power. Critics may see the SNP’s proposal as a risk to that independence, particularly given the columnist’s account of politicians objecting to his journalism, while arguing that BBC Scotland’s planned cuts should be challenged on their own merits.
Explained simply
Broadcasting in Scotland is currently regulated mainly at UK level, while the BBC and other broadcasters make decisions about their services and editorial content. Devolving broadcasting powers would give the Scottish Parliament a greater role in setting policy, a change supporters say could help Scottish coverage reflect the country’s needs.
The BBC’s Scotland service includes a television channel and news programmes, alongside content on its iPlayer streaming platform. Debates about its future involve how audiences watch television, how the BBC allocates funding and jobs, and what coverage people across Scotland can access.
The SNP is Scotland’s largest political party and has led the Scottish Government for much of the period since devolution began in 1999. The debate raises questions about the balance between decisions made in Scotland and the UK, and how to protect broadcasters’ independence from political pressure.