§ Mr. Andrew TurnerTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs for what reason BBC World Service broadcasts are no longer available via short wave in North America; and what percentage of the North American land mass is now within broadcast range of the World Service. [5102]
§ Mr. MacShaneThe BBC World Service has stopped short wave broadcasts to North America because audiences there listen mainly on FM and the internet. The impact on audience figures will be reviewed next year. The funding released will help extend the World Service's global reach through new services, including short wave where it is needed. World Service broadcasts are available to the whole of North America on the internet and on FM and medium wave through over 230 public radio stations.