HC Deb 08 July 1997 vol 297 cc418-9W
Mr. Mullin

To ask the Secretary of State of Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what financial reduction has been imposed on the BBC World Service over and above those required by the reduction in Foreign Office funding: and if he will make a statement. [5833]

Mr. Fatchett

There have been no additional financial cuts. The restructuring is the responsibility of the BBC. This Department is monitoring its implementation particularly with regard to the special character, style, ethos and quality of the World Service.