📺 Delegated Legislation Committee

• The Draft Local Digital Television Programme Services (Amendment) Order 2024 was discussed in a parliamentary session on December 17, 2024, aimed at updating the framework for local TV services in the UK.

• Minister Stephanie Peacock introduced the debate, emphasizing the significance of local TV in providing local content, news, and training opportunities, particularly outside of London. She highlighted that the order extends the local TV multiplex until 2034 and initiates a renewal process for the 34 local TV services across the UK.

• The order reflects responses from a consultation that included license holders, media companies, and the public. The majority supported a streamlined renewal process to maintain stability and certainty.

• Saqib Bhatti, representing the Opposition, supported the order but expressed concerns about the impact of recent economic policies on business confidence within the sector. He inquired about government support for collaboration and investment, and the timeline for a promised local media strategy.

• Zöe Franklin from the Liberal Democrats endorsed the order but raised the need for Ofcom to clarify the renewal process to not burden local TV operators. She also advocated for securing prominence for local TV on digital apps to ensure future accessibility.

• Sir John Whittingdale stressed the importance of local content to justify the role of local TV and urged Ofcom to prioritize local news in license conditions. He also discussed the challenge of maintaining prominence in a digital landscape without guaranteed slots on digital apps.

• Seamus Logan, speaking on behalf of Scottish stations, supported the extension and stressed the need to protect local news viability through the renewal process. He also echoed the call for local TV to have pathways to launch apps on internet-connected platforms.

• In her closing remarks, Minister Peacock confirmed ongoing governmental work to develop a local media strategy and addressed concerns about local content requirements and digital app prominence. She assured continued dialogue about evolving TV distribution models and confirmed a 12-month extension option for local TV services.

• The order passed with agreement, aiming to ensure continued local TV service provision and regulatory oversight by Ofcom for another decade.

The session on the Draft Local Digital Television Programme Services (Amendment) Order 2024 displayed minimal disagreement among the participants. The Minister, Stephanie Peacock, presented the order and its purpose to extend and renew local TV licences, which received broad support from all members who spoke. Saqib Bhatti from the Opposition echoed the importance of local TV services and supported the statutory instrument, requesting details on further government support but not opposing the order itself. Zöe Franklin from the Liberal Democrats also supported the SI, suggesting enhancements rather than opposition. Sir John Whittingdale, while reflecting on challenges faced by local TV, expressed general support and focused on ensuring prominence for local content rather than opposing the order. Seamus Logan from the SNP also supported the measures and emphasized the need for a non-burdensome process. The Minister’s responses were cooperative, addressing concerns raised without any contentious remarks, indicating a harmonious session with little to no disagreement.