John Mason, the SNP MP for Glasgow East, has welcomed the announcement of a review of the list of events which are protected for free broadcast coverage.

The Broadcasting Act 1996 allows the Secretary of State to draw up a list of sporting and other events of national importance reserved for broadcast by public service broadcasters with the aim of giving them the widest possible broadcast coverage. The list was last revised in 1998 and is now under review by a panel of sport, broadcast and business experts. The panel has also invited the general public to submit their views.

Commenting on the review, John Mason said: "Calling for the revision of this list has been a long-running SNP campaign, so this consultation is very welcome.

"Whether you are a fan of football, rugby or another sport, I would urge all East End sports enthusiasts to make their views known.  This consultation process will recommend which events should be aired on free TV channels.

"For example, this review must listen to the voices of Scotland fans who, want to watch our national team’s qualifying matches with their friends or family in the comfort of their own homes.

"I would encourage all local sports fans to make their opinions known to the panel."

Notes:

The consultation document is available here.

Submissions should be sent by 3 July 2009 (at the latest) to:

David Patterson
5th Floor
Department for Culture, Media and Sport
2-4 Cockspur Street
LONDON SW1Y 5DH

or to the Reviews e-mail address This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it