HL Deb 18 February 1999 vol 597 c86WA
Lord Acton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the BBC World Service has decided to close its posts of Middle East and Islamic Affairs Analyst; and, if so, why. [HL926]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

The Middle East is extremely important to the BBC World Service, which is committed as a priority to ensuring the best coverage of and about affairs in the region. Staff matters are for the BBC management to decide internally.