S4C REVIEW DEBATE

That this House notes with concern the publication and subsequent recommendations of the independent review into S4C; highlights the removal of S4C's direct public funding, resulting in the broadcaster having to rely on the licence fee which is both administered and governed by the BBC; raises concerns therefore of editorial independence and public accountability; further notes with disappointment that the review makes no mention of devolving responsibility of S4C to Wales, as recommended by the Silk Commission; stresses the discrepancy in the fact that the Welsh Government has powers over the Welsh language but no powers over S4C, the only Welsh language television channel and therefore one of the most significant tools for promotion of the Welsh language; further highlights with alarm the added digital responsibilities which have been added to S4C's remit, without the corresponding funding to reflect additional costs; notes with dismay the Government's decision to announce its response through written Statement only, removing the possibility of proper Parliamentary scrutiny through a dialogue in the House; and urges the Government to schedule a debate in the House enabling the people of Wales, through their elected representatives, to have their say about the future of S4C.