Frequently asked questions at the outset of the Commission's investigation
Why was the Commission established?
On 8 August 2007 First Minister Alex Salmond announced the creation of a Scottish Broadcasting Commission to define a strategic way forward for television production and broadcasting in Scotland. The Scottish Government believes there is great potential in Scotland's broadcasting sector and wants to ensure the public and those working in the sector are served well.
Outlining the draft remit for the Commission, the Scottish Government said:
Taking account of the economic, cultural and democratic importance of broadcasting to a modern, outward looking Scotland the Commission will:
- Make recommendations for Scottish government action in those areas that lie within the scope of the powers currently devolved to the Scottish Parliament
- Focus attention on issues where other organisations have responsibility and encourage action to address these issues
- Identify matters for further consideration and debate in the Scottish Parliament
When did the Commission start its work?
The first meeting of the Commission took place on 26 October 2007.
When did the Commission first start taking evidence?
The first oral evidence taking session was on 16 November 2007. The first to give evidence were senior executives for Channel 4.
Is the Commission only looking at TV?
The Commission has been asked to carry out an independent investigation into television production and broadcasting. Where there are connected issues concerning radio the Commission will consider this, but the prime focus is television.
Is the Commission looking into Gaelic Broadcasting?
Work is already well underway by the BBC, Ofcom, the Gaelic Media Service and Scottish Government to establish a Gaelic television channel. The Commission does not wish to duplicate this work. However, we will consider evidence relating to Gaelic where it comes up during the course of our inquiries.
Does the Commission believe that the regulation and responsibility for broadcasting should be devolved to the Scottish Parliament?
The Commission has been established by the Scottish Government to examine the value of Scottish broadcasting to viewers and as a creative industry. We are aiming to define a strategic way forward for the broadcasting industry in Scotland. In doing so, the Commission will consider whether the current structures and framework for broadcasting in Scotland are appropriate to deliver that strategic direction. This does not mean that the Commission is looking specifically at whether elements should be devolved to the Scottish Parliament. The Commission will report to Scottish Ministers and it will be for them and others to consider the implications of our findings and recommendations for government policy.
Are the Chair and Commission members paid?
Members do not receive any salary or fee, although expenses, such as travel costs, incurred during the course of Commission business are paid. The Chair does receive a fee for his work leading the Commission. The commitment required and demands made of the Chair will vary each week, determined by the work of the Commission.
Does the Commission believe there should be a 'Scottish Six'?
The Commission believes it is important to look at how network news is delivered in Scotland but that the so-called 'Scottish Six' label is perhaps not helpful as it reflects a particular proposal relating only to one hour on one channel. The Commission will be looking at the current editorial challenges in producing UK television news bulletins that are appropriate, accurate and relevant for the whole of the UK. We welcome evidence on this when undertaking the democratic phase of our work.
Will the Commission be setting quotas for how much production should be generated in Scotland and stipulating what type of programmes or content are shown?
No, it is not in the remit of the Commission to set any quotas. The Commission will report to Scottish Ministers and make recommendations for a strategic way forward for increasing production and strengthening broadcasting in Scotland, and this may include recommendations relating to the level of production in Scotland. It will be for others to take action and make decisions on output.