BBC

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 12:33 pm on 21 July 2020.

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Photo of John Whittingdale John Whittingdale Minister of State 12:33, 21 July 2020

I agree with my hon. Friend. I have discussed the proposed reductions with the director for England and the director of nations and regions for the BBC. It is obviously a matter for them, but in my view although the BBC may have to find savings across its budget, that does not mean that every area of expenditure should be reduced. There are areas in which the BBC could save more and there are areas where any cuts would have a damaging effect. I fear that regional coverage is in that latter category, so the BBC should prioritise it. We will continue to make that clear to the BBC.