Source · Select Committees · Welsh Affairs Committee
Fifth Report - Broadcasting in Wales
Welsh Affairs Committee
HC 620
Published 27 October 2023
Recommendations
9
Rejected
Establish enhanced long-term partnership between S4C and BBC Cymru Wales with independence safeguards
Recommendation
We welcome the investments that the Government is making in digital provision for S4C, but the scale of investment needed to ensure the sustainability of Welsh language broadcasting in the long-term is daunting. We are concerned that the wider revolution …
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Government Response Summary
The government rejects overseeing an enhanced long-term partnership between S4C and BBC Cymru Wales, stating it is a matter for the independent organisations. However, it agrees the partnership should be maintained and is legislating through the Media Bill to provide a more flexible framework for their relationship.
Wales Office
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12
Rejected
Para 79
Amend Ofcom's remit to designate events requiring live Welsh language commentary
Recommendation
The use of Welsh in sport is a vital expression of identity for many. Whilst we understand concerns that a Welsh language requirement could reduce the value of broadcasting contracts, we believe that the provision of Welsh commentary is extremely …
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Government Response Summary
The government rejects amending Ofcom's remit to designate events for Welsh language commentary, stating it would not be appropriate for Ofcom to hold such powers and that these decisions should remain with the democratically accountable Secretary of State.
Wales Office
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26
Rejected
Para 138
Reform Apprenticeship Levy and increase shared apprenticeship rollout for Welsh creative industries.
Recommendation
Apprenticeships can be an effective and powerful way of developing a diverse and skilled workforce. However, the current system of apprenticeships within the broadcasting sector is inflexible, and does not reflect the needs of a freelance, project-based sector. There must …
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Government Response Summary
The government rejects a formal review of the Apprenticeship Levy at this time, stating that apprenticeship policy and spending are devolved. It highlights ongoing improvements to the system in England and other initiatives like T Levels and Skills Bootcamps for creative industries.
Wales Office
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27
Rejected
Examine if current criterion adequately defines Welsh-based productions in the Draft Media Bill.
Recommendation
Brass-plating allows broadcasters to meet their regional production criteria while using production companies that may not be based in Wales. Ofcom acknowledges that relying on the “substantive base” criterion alone provides an opportunity for the system to be manipulated. We …
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Government Response Summary
The government rejects amending the Draft Media Bill, stating that public service broadcasters' quotas for regional programming are a matter for Ofcom, who they believe has sufficient powers to address any loopholes.
Wales Office
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