The BBC is proposing to significantly cut its bespoke output in all BBC Local Radio stations, including at BBC Radio London.
Today the Assembly agreed a motion calling on the Mayor and Chair of the Assembly to write separately to BBC leadership, to oppose the cuts to local radio services.
Marina Ahmad AM, who proposed the motion, said:
“BBC Radio London is a vital resource, the proposed cuts to the service would be a great loss to Londoners.
“Local radio plays a crucial role across the UK in providing people with the news and entertainment that matters to them and a forum to hold politicians to account.
“The radio reaches those who may not have access to other means of information, such as the internet or television.
“I am also very concerned for BBC staff who may face redundancy. I am calling on the Mayor, and the Chair of the London Assembly, to write to BBC leadership to ask them to put a stop to the cuts.”
The full text of the motion is:
This Assembly is concerned about the BBC’s proposals to significantly cut its bespoke output in all BBC Local Radio stations including at BBC Radio London. This Assembly believes that these cuts will seriously diminish a service that is highly valued by listeners and underpins local democracy, in London and across the UK.
This Assembly calls on the Mayor and Chair of the Assembly to write separately to the BBC leadership which includes: The BBC Director General, Director of BBC Nations and Acting Director of BBC England, to oppose the cuts to local radio services.
Notes to editors
- Watch the full webcast.
- The motion was agreed unanimously.
- Marina Ahmad AM, who proposed the motion, is available for interviews.
- As well as investigating issues that matter to Londoners, the London Assembly acts as a check and a balance on the Mayor.
For media enquiries, please contact Emma Bowden on 07849 303 897. For out of hours media enquiries, call 020 7983 4000 and ask for the London Assembly duty press officer.