§ Mr. MacdonaldTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what is his Department's policy on the role of television in the safeguarding and promotion of the Gaelic language.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythWe recognise the contribution which the media in general, and television in particular, 95W can make to the preservation of the Gaelic language. My right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State has no direct locus in this matter but we have encouraged the Gaelic community and its representative organisations to discuss its needs with the broadcasting authorities. It is, however, for the broadcasting authorities to assess the demand and to provide the appropriate services within available resources.