BBC Scotland and daily covid-19 briefings

Motion Text

That this House condemns the decision of BBC Scotland to stop broadcasting the Scottish Government’s briefings on the covid-19 pandemic in Scotland; notes the consistent public interest in these briefings throughout this health crisis; is bewildered by the timing of this decision given that this is now a critical point when the public needs to be kept fully and speedily informed of any changes in public health advice as covid-19 cases begin to rise again; questions the BBC’s status as a public service broadcaster in the light of this decision given that these televised covid-19 updates are particularly valuable to older people, those with hearing difficulties and those who are not always able to access online information; is not aware that medical experts were consulted on the efficacy of this decision and the implications it potentially poses for public health; is concerned that this decision was made following pressure from both the Conservative and Labour parties; and is aware that many have questioned the political neutrality of this BBC decision given that the new BBC director general is a former Conservative party councillor.