§ Mr. WinnickTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what plans he has to meet the chairman and Director General of the BBC to discuss the future radio broadcasting of the House; and if he will make a statement. [9878]
§ Mr. FisherMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has no such plans. Under the terms of its agreement with the Secretary of State, the BBC is required to transmit an impartial day-by-day account of the proceedings in both Houses of Parliament, but it is for the BBC to determine the best way in which to meet this obligation. The BBC is carrying out an extensive consultation exercise about the future direction of Radio 4 and I am sure that it will take into account in arriving at its decisions the strong feelings expressed by Madam Speaker and by hon. Members on both sides of the House about the broadcasting of our proceedings.