Gambling Act 2005 (Amendment of Schedule 6) Order 2012
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch(12 years, 5 months ago)
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Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, the legislation that we are considering here this afternoon is concerned with Schedule 6 to the Gambling Act 2005, which lists the sports governing bodies and regulatory bodies with which the Gambling Commission may exchange information. The order under scrutiny is intended, first, to add a number of new organisations to the list so as to widen the range of sports covered, and, secondly, to update the list.
The British general public is well accustomed to betting on sport. Sophisticated legal betting markets currently operate through traditional outlets such as bookmakers and betting shops, and by remote means through the internet and by telephone. The main responsibility for the collection and collation of intelligence relating to suspicious sports betting rests with the Gambling Commission, specifically through its sports betting intelligence unit. The commission undertakes investigations into suspected criminal activity in its own right and in collaboration with the police, and it has a range of investigative powers to enable this work.
Exchange of information between the Gambling Commission and sports governing bodies is essential to the fight against sports betting corruption, which is harmful both to sport itself and to the associated sports and betting markets, as it allows suspicious betting patterns to be identified and dealt with in order to avoid or prevent match fixing. The mechanism for this is provided by the Gambling Act 2005, where Schedule 6 lists a range of sports governing bodies and regulatory organisations for the purpose of exchanging information with the Gambling Commission. Information can be exchanged with organisations not included in Schedule 6, but such cases require individual legal opinions that take time and are expensive. Unless the organisations are listed on the schedule, there is also a limit to the information the Gambling Commission can pass on in such cases.
The order under scrutiny this afternoon adds to the list of sports governing bodies with which the Gambling Commission can exchange information, so as to widen the scope of its coverage and strengthen its response to sports betting integrity threats wherever the need should arise. There is also some simple tidying work to update the list to reflect changes in the organisational structure and names of some sports and regulatory organisations that are currently on the schedule but are no longer correct.
I do not propose to list the changes here—these are evident in the order—but I shall briefly set out the broad rationale behind the changes. Before I do, though, let me just say that I fully appreciate the strong feelings that some noble Lords may have about sports integrity and betting corruption. There are, of course, many wider concerns raised by this subject, all of which deserve thorough examination, but that must be for another time. Given the time constraints on us today, I fear that we would not be able to do these concerns justice.
The impetus for this review stems from the International Olympic Committee’s request that it be added to Schedule 6 in advance of the London 2012 Games in case threats to betting integrity should arise during the Games. I stress that no specific illegal betting threat to the Games has been identified, but the Government agreed with the IOC that it was sensible to take such a precaution. Should such an incident occur, it could be most damaging to the reputation of both the United Kingdom and the 2012 Olympic Games.
As the list of sports governing bodies in Schedule 6 has not been updated since the Gambling Act was drafted, now is also a good time to add other relevant national and international governing bodies in order to ensure better coverage of the main sports in the UK and to better reflect the sports governing bodies with which the Gambling Commission now regularly deals.
The amendments that we are looking at today include a range of UK sports governing bodies covering bowls, darts, squash, hockey, motor sports and the London marathon. Your Lordships may not immediately associate these sports with the possibility of betting corruption, and I stress again that there is no immediate concern in these areas. This is really an exercise in crystal ball gazing and trying to anticipate where any risk to sports integrity might arise in the future. The inclusion of these governing bodies is based on the advice of the Gambling Commission, which has undertaken a thorough risk analysis that draws greatly on the experience and knowledge of its Sports Betting Intelligence Unit.
Noble Lords will also note that the amendments include a number of international sports governing bodies. These go beyond just the International Olympic Committee to cover football, rugby, tennis, snooker, cricket and athletics, among others. Again, their inclusion is based on the advice of the Gambling Commission. Its Sports Betting Intelligence Unit has up to now liaised with a lot of the international sports governing bodies’ equivalents—for example, FIFA, UEFA and the ICC—on betting integrity cases. It therefore makes sense to include these bodies in the list. The sports they govern should be represented by domestic sports governing bodies; it would none the less be useful to have their international equivalents included.
Finally, it is very sad that betting provides an opportunity and incentive to corrupt sport. This may result in the inappropriate use of inside information or interference with the outcome of an event. In turn, this can have an impact on the public’s confidence in the fairness of sporting results. As the betting market develops and the range of betting opportunities increases, it is right that we look to the future to make certain that the response mechanism is fit for purpose and addresses such threats, should they arise. These amendments are a proactive means of strengthening this response mechanism. The ability of the commission and a sports governing body to respond to a sports betting integrity threat at a faster pace is crucial. We sincerely hope that this will result in a lower incidence of gambling corruption and a more managed response to any match-fixing scandal that occurs. This, in turn, can give the public the reassurance they need about the fairness of any sporting contest.
I look forward to the debate and to your Lordships’ contributions. I commend the order to the Committee.
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
My Lords, I thank the Minister for her explanation of the proposed changes to Schedule 6. In response, I begin by making it clear that we absolutely share the Government’s determination to crack down on illegal gambling and to work with the Gambling Commission to root out organised criminal behaviour and illegal payments to sports men and women. The UK currently has an unrivalled reputation for high standards of integrity in sport and it is in all our interests to keep it that way.
We also acknowledge the important role that legitimate UK betting companies play in creating jobs and contributing to the economy. With this in mind, we understand that the lists of individual sports and the sports governing bodies covered by the requirements to exchange information with the Gambling Commission will need to be updated and refreshed from time to time. We also support this approach, which is in keeping with the spirit of the Act, rather than the alternative option, which was to introduce broad classifications of those covered by the Act.
However, I have a couple of questions that I hope the Minister will be able to deal with. First, as a general point, she said that she did not want to talk about wider gambling issues, but we know that the sports betting industry is increasingly moving offshore and online, with an estimated value globally of over £200 billion. The steps that we are taking today with this schedule mean very little if we do not effectively regulate the global online gambling market. I know that the Minister, John Penrose, announced in July last year that proposals would be brought forward to legislate on remote gambling, so can the Minister update us on the progress of these proposals and when we are likely to be able to consider them in this House?
Secondly, with the London Olympics imminent and the obvious need to maintain the reputation of British sports as relatively corruption-free, we do not have a problem with adding the International Olympic Committee to the list of organisations with which the Gambling Commission will liaise, but how will these new links work alongside any information that is already shared with LOCOG and the British Olympic Committee? Will the IOC have a responsibility to alert them to any investigations that it is pursuing, and is there a clear demarcation in responsibilities between the umbrella sports bodies and the individual sports governing bodies? How will they ensure that they are all kept in the loop?
Is it clear who has the prime responsibility for investigating allegations of betting corruption and illegal payments? Will it be made clear to the new bodies that are being added to the schedule that they will need to have a list of betting rules in place to enable them to investigate and take action against those breaching the rules? Has any thought been given to the additional resources that those individual sports will need to police their sports effectively, particularly during the intense period of the Olympic Games themselves?
After the Olympics are over, what will be the ongoing relationship between the Gambling Commission and the IOC as preparations are made for the next Games in 2016? Will the commission’s jurisdiction continue to be limited to activities within the UK’s borders, or will it be expected to play a wider role in sharing global information in the run-up to Rio? Moreover, I understand the need to form links with the international sports bodies, but are the relationships and responsibilities formally set out in some kind of agreement? Inevitably, the more bodies that are added to the Gambling Commission’s list of organisations that it liaises with, the more scope there is for confusion between the roles. Will the Minister reassure me that these are clearly defined?
I cannot help speculating about the need to include bowls in the list of sports with which the Gambling Commission will exchange information in future. The Minister said that there were no obvious or known incidents of corrupt betting in all the organisations that are going to be added, but is there any regular betting at all in bowls? Has the bowling governing body signed up to being regulated in this way? Inevitably, after all, this has responsibilities and implications for that body, if only in the filling out of regulatory forms and so on. It all seems a long way from the rather gentle image of local bowls clubs up and down the country that we know and love.
Those are my only questions, which are points of detail. I reiterate that we broadly support the thrust of what the order and the revised schedule seek to achieve, and I look forward to hearing the Minister’s response.
Social Tourism
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
I am sorry, we are being a bit slow on this side. Does the Minister accept the educational benefits of children and families travelling outside their own confined communities? Does she recognise the role that that might play in raising the aspirations of young people? Will she agree to talk to her ministerial colleagues in the Department for Education about the contribution that they can play in facilitating holidays for those too poor to afford a family break?
Baroness Rawlings
The noble Baroness raises a very good point. Such travel does raise the aspirations of children. Through our changes to the education and welfare system, we hope to overcome barriers to social mobility by giving families the power and resources to be able to go on holiday if they choose.
Wedgwood Museum
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch(12 years, 9 months ago)
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Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
My Lords, may I pursue the whole issue of the “last man standing” legislation with the noble Baroness? I understand that, following the DWP’s review of this policy, it was agreed that there would be a further review. However, I gathered from what the noble Baroness was saying just now that this is not the case. Will she confirm whether this matter is under review, because it seems to noble Lords around the House that it is being used and implemented in a way that was never foreseen, is causing charities—not just the Wedgwood Museum but other charities—considerable concern and disquiet, and has consequences for unemployment in the area as well? Therefore, will the noble Baroness clarify the status of the “last man standing” legislation?
Baroness Rawlings
With pleasure, my Lords. We understand that the Wedgwood pension scheme operated on the basis that if any participating employers became insolvent or otherwise stopped sponsoring the scheme, responsibility for the pension scheme fell to the remaining employers. This is what is meant by the “last man standing” rule. As a result, the company of the Wedgwood pension scheme—the museum—became liable for its pensions shortfall. We are awaiting the judgment from the Attorney-General. Then it will be decided where we go to from there.
Local Digital Television Programme Services Order 2012
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch(12 years, 9 months ago)
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Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, the UK’s media and public service broadcasting is widely regarded as among the best in the world. We enjoy plurality in newsprint at all levels and have a diverse commercial and community radio sector. Yet the UK’s media market has never properly developed in one significant respect: that is, local television. This is despite Ofcom research showing significant interest from UK consumers—80 per cent of people rate local news as important to them.
The Government have carried out extensive consultation and studies to identify how local TV can work in the United Kingdom. This culminated with our recent announcement of the first 20 locations expected to receive a local TV licence this year. The Government are now taking the necessary steps to implement an innovative new framework, some of the components of which are before the Committee today. We are not imposing new burdens on business but, instead, removing barriers to entry and creating new incentives. The two instruments before the Committee today need to be considered collectively. A third instrument to secure electronic programme guide prominence for local TV has also been laid by the Government but is not before the Committee today. We hope that the local television channel will be channel 8 in England and Northern Ireland.
For local TV to feature on the digital terrestrial television platform—that is, Freeview in lay man’s terms—it needs access to suitable spectrum. Therefore, the Secretary of State is directing Ofcom, through the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006 (Directions to OFCOM) Order, to make sufficient spectrum available for local TV. Spectrum is already available to public service broadcasters. The beauty of our proposals is that we will be using spectrum available in the space between existing transmitters. This “geographic interleaved” spectrum allows different services to be broadcast in different locations—perfect for local television—instead of reserving portions of valuable nationally available spectrum. However, this spectrum does vary in signal strength across the UK. The list of pioneer local TV towns and cities identified by Ofcom are those with good spectrum coverage. Where spectrum coverage is inadequate, the Government expect that local TV services will develop online and, in the future, be carried through internet protocol television as this market develops. This instrument will meet the needs of local TV, which is low-cost and offers incentives to potential local multiplex operators. In most places, the amount of interleave spectrum being made available for local TV purposes is less than 10 per cent overall—meaning that there is plenty of spectrum remaining for other purposes.
The Local Digital Television Programme Services Order modifies the Broadcasting Act 1996 by creating a new licensing regime for local television, administered by Ofcom. The order provides for licensing the operator of the multiplex that will hold the spectrum being made available and for licensing the individual local television services. The multiplex operator will manage the spectrum and associated infrastructure to enable transmission of local TV services. We are preventing the multiplex operator from taking advantage of the local TV providers. It cannot charge local TV services transmission rates above cost recovery. The multiplex licence holder must also co-operate by meeting the minimum coverage obligations. Local service licensees will be obliged to provide content of interest to local audiences, suited to the local population’s needs and public service in nature.
Finally, the instrument provides for the establishment of an industry body for local TV. This could take a number of functions, such as measuring audience viewing numbers, and it could even bid for the multiplex licence if it became available, thereby helping to align the commercial interests of the multiplex operation with those of local TV services.
Collectively, the measures in these two instruments offer certainty of access to spectrum and equip Ofcom to license local TV. I hope the Committee agrees it is essential that we address the local TV deficit in the media marketplace, help create new opportunities for business and give audiences the plurality in content that they desire. I assure the Committee that we are satisfied with the orders and that they are compatible with Convention rights. I commend these orders to the Committee. I beg to move.
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
My Lords, I thank the noble Baroness for her explanation of the two statutory instruments. The theory behind local TV is laudable; people are interested in what is happening in their local community and should be encouraged to become more knowledgeable and play a part as active citizens, including holding their local representatives to account. If local TV can successfully go some way to achieving those objectives, then it should be supported and welcomed. However, decisions like these are not made in isolation: we also have to look at the wider context—particularly as in this case, where there is public money involved through the proposed subsidy from the BBC.
In particular, I would like to explore further whether the demand for this service really exists. Would the service stand any real likelihood of long-term success once the subsidy is removed? Would a local TV service have a negative impact on existing local media outlets? Are there any adverse media ownership and plurality issues? What guarantees of quality would really exist when the scheme is up and running?
First, I would like some further evidence that there is sufficient demand for local TV to make it viable. The Minister said—and it is recorded in the impact assessment—that the Ofcom research identified that 80 per cent of people rate local news as important. I do not doubt that to be the case. However, does this not need to be measured against the evidence of consumer behaviours where local TV has been on offer in the past? The previous experiments with local TV in the UK have all failed, in part because they could not sustain the viewing figures. At the same time, local newspapers around the country are closing or being produced less often. Surely if there really was sufficient demand, this would not be the case.
Given that the Government have supposedly championed evidence-based policy, I am surprised that the department has not carried out more specific research into demand for this model of local TV. The Minister referred to extensive research. I should like more information about that. For example, what proportion of the local population do we know would seek out one or two hours of local TV programmes on a channel on which the overwhelming level of content was unconnected to the local area? Is there a preferred time for local programmes and can these slots be guaranteed when they will be competing with more commercial productions in primetime? If we do not know the answers to these questions, would it not have been safer to pilot the initiative in one or two cities rather than roll out the scheme nationally to 20 providers and then a further 24 conurbations with the associated costs? What research exists and what reassurance can the Minister give us that the scheme is viable?
Secondly, I should like to pursue the issue of the longer-term sustainability of these programmes. As we know, the BBC is providing £40 million over four years, including £25 million start-up costs. As I understand it, this money will be used to set up the infrastructure of the multiplex system, the licensing system and local production start-up costs. Meanwhile, the report from Nicholas Shott identified that, in the longer term, local TV would probably be delivered by internet protocol TV—the Minister made reference to this—and this is a widely held industry view. This begs the question of why we are investing so many of our scarce resources in a local TV system which will be overtaken by changes in digital technology almost before it has had time to become established. Would we not have been better off working with the sector to embrace these changes and be prepared for a new digital age rather than setting up what appears to be a convoluted bidding system, which will then have to go through an awkward transition into the eventual internet protocol scheme?
Incidentally, the Shott report also places great emphasis on the viability of local TV depending on high listing in electronic programme guides—again, the Minister made reference to this. I know that we are not debating this today, but I am not sure that that would be easy to achieve, as the listing system is highly competitive and there are other worthy candidates for front-page listing. I am not sure that we can guarantee that local TV stations would be given a listing on the first page of EPGs.
Thirdly, I should like to explore further the impact of the proposals on existing local media outlets. The reason that many local newspapers are struggling is that advertising revenues are down, as people switch to the internet to access details of local shops and services. I understand the argument that some businesses might be more attracted to advertise on, let us say, Brighton local TV than on Meridian TV, as the catchment area is more aligned to the smaller Brighton area, but we are talking about the same consumers who no longer read the Brighton Argus or look for adverts in it. I am not sure that it would make commercial sense. How will existing media outlets, including local newspapers and commercial radio, avoid fighting over a declining pool of advertising revenue, putting them all at greater commercial risk?
This brings me on to ownership and plurality. In a number of debates in your Lordships' House, there has been a cross-party consensus that plurality in media ownership is the bedrock of a healthy democracy. On the face of it, local TV could add to that diversity, which would be welcome, but is there not a danger that it could have the opposite effect? The relaxation of the cross-media rules, combined with more intense local competition for market share, could result in one organisation or one person controlling all the local commercial media outlets—newspapers, radio and TV. The Shott report seemed to suggest that this would be welcome, as there could be pooling of news gathering and advertising resources. Is that a potential or desirable outcome? Perhaps the Minister can clarify what controls will be in place to guarantee local plurality.
Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, I thank all noble Lords who have contributed to this short debate with many very valid points and interesting questions. I will try to respond to as many as possible.
The noble Baroness, Lady Jones, asked about the declining pool of advertising revenue. Local television is expected to take less than 3 per cent. We are creating new opportunities for existing local media to diversify their business through television. Local television has the potential even to grow in the television advertising market.
Why do we include London, which has a large population compared to many other places? London’s local licence is separate from the BBC and ITV regional offer. London TV will be required through licence obligations to meet the needs of local London viewers. Like all such programmes, they will be tailored to local needs and requirement.
Regarding ownership of local television services, the Ofcom beauty contest, which will be starting quite soon, means that the bidders offering content that is most relevant to local viewers will be more likely to win a local licence. Licence conditions will include localism criteria, so that licensees will need to provide content of interest to local audiences that will support local democracy. Any local cross-media mergers will be subject to competition law and to the media public interest test.
The noble Baroness asked several questions about regulating the content of local TV. The broadcasting code will apply to local TV services, which will therefore have to make certain that any news programmes are impartial and accurate—the same as applies to other television news programming. These new services will be a way to increase the provision of quality local content supported by licence conditions imposed by Ofcom.
Regarding the impact on the wider local media, we do not expect local television to take away large amounts of local newspaper advertising revenues. Research by Enders Analysis, which the noble Baroness might have seen, suggested that local TV could take approximately 3 per cent of the existing local advertising market. We also expect that local newspapers may well be interested in bidding to run local television services as a way of diversifying their portfolios.
The noble Baroness asked about quality and impartiality. Ofcom’s scrutiny process will produce incentives to competition and to bidding for local television licences, thereby driving up quality. All news shown by local television will have to be impartial and comply with the broadcasting code, which is very important.
The noble Baroness asked whether there was demand and why previous attempts failed. Ofcom research clearly shows high demand for local content. As she mentioned, Nicholas Shott looked very carefully at commercial validity. Previous local television providers were available but low on the EPG list, and on analogue. Our proposals secure high EPG listing and create incentives through the spectrum and licensing. This is a new framework, which was not previously available.
What happens when the BBC funding runs out? We have worked hard to understand the issues around commercial viability for local television. The framework that we are putting in place offers the best chance for viability, with assistance from the BBC, EPG prominence, an appropriate licensing framework and the reservation of spectrum. With all these factors in place, and an enthusiastic local market, we expect local television to be viable.
My noble friend Lady Bonham-Carter asked about audience measurement. Through the licensing regime, we are enabling the creation of and participation in a local TV body. This body will be able to invest in audience research, such as BARB. My noble friend also asked what will happen after three years. Local television will be in a commercial position and the advertising offer should be in place after three years to make long-term sustainability certain.
My noble friend Lord Clement-Jones asked about timing. No decision has yet been made. Whether local television will be entitled to seven or nine minutes of advertising an hour is a matter for Ofcom. It will rule on that, along with all the other areas on which it will be rule.
Finally, I reiterate that this legislation creates new opportunities for businesses and audiences. The strategic framework being put in place means support from the BBC, prominence on electronic programme guides, allocated spectrum and a new fit-for-purpose Ofcom licensing regime. This will help local television to become a fundamental part of the broadcasting landscape in the UK, which will in turn support local democracy, increase local public service content and act as a driver for growth in the local media market. I am most grateful for all the clarifying questions that the noble Baroness asked.
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
Could I press the noble Baroness on one point, which I asked about but which I do not think she answered? I understand that when the licences are given out, it will be to a provider who will then be able to broadcast 24 hours a day. The local element is envisaged to be only ever a couple of hours a day, give or take one to three hours. Certainly, the provider will not just broadcast local news over that 24-hour timescale. I am still not clear as to what controls will be on the producers to guarantee quality for the other—let us say—20 or 22 hours a day. They could end up on the front page of the electronic programme guide for producing cartoons or something of poor quality—not what we would regard as decent-quality public service broadcasting. I just want some clarification on what controls there will be on that element of a channel’s broadcasting.
Baroness Rawlings
That is a very important point and one that should be considered. This will vary according to the local TV provider and Ofcom will assess bids on the basis of the offer. Local content could run over 24 hours but there are quality controls, and this will be part of the Ofcom licensing regime. If there are any further details that I have not addressed fully, I shall of course write to the noble Baroness. I commend the order to the Committee.
Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (Dissolution) Order 2012
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch(12 years, 10 months ago)
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Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, in 2005 Parliament passed the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act. The Act turned the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment, an arm’s-length body of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, into a statutory corporation. The commission, or CABE as it is more commonly known, was originally created in 1999 to replace the Royal Fine Art Commission as England’s champion for promoting high standards in architecture and urban design. Part 8 of the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act also provided that CABE could be dissolved by affirmative order, and it is an order under those provisions that we are considering today.
The order provides for the dissolution of CABE. It transfers the remaining property, rights and liabilities of CABE immediately before the date of dissolution to the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport. The order also makes provision for the final report and accounts for CABE, and contains consequential repeals and revocations.
The dissolution of CABE is an outcome of the comprehensive spending review of October 2010. While we recognised the important role that CABE has played in promoting well designed buildings and public spaces, we judged that the most pressing need was to protect and maintain other parts of our culture and heritage. As a result, we reluctantly decided to withdraw CABE’s DCMS funding after 2011-12. CABE was jointly funded by the Department for Communities and Local Government and, in the light of DCMS’s decision, DCLG indicated that its funding for CABE would cease after 2010-11. Therefore, CABE was unable to continue as a public body, and a controlled closure was implemented. The majority of CABE’s operations ceased with effect from 31 March 2011 and it was mostly wound up by 30 September 2011, when its remaining staff and commissioners left.
Some of CABE’s activities, principally design review, are now being carried out by the Design Council CABE, a subsidiary of the Design Council. This is being funded initially by a DCLG grant of £2.75 million a year for two financial years 2011-13. As a result, on 1 April 2011, 19 CABE staff transferred to the Design Council under the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations.
In addition, on 30 September 2011, Engaging Places, the built environment education programme that CABE ran with English Heritage, was transferred to the architecture centre Open City Architecture, together with one full-time permanent member of staff and a one-off grant of £100,000 from DCMS.
CABE did excellent and valuable work for DCMS in the past; the decision to withdraw funding was not taken lightly and should not in any way be taken as a criticism of CABE's performance. Indeed, I would like to pay tribute to CABE’s work; it helped to raise the standards of design in housing, health and infrastructure buildings, schools, town centres and public spaces across England. Since 1999, CABE reviewed the design of over 3,000 of the most significant development proposals to come forward during a period of architectural renaissance in England. I am happy to say that the records of these are now preserved at the National Archives, providing a fascinating snapshot of major schemes in the first 10 years of the new millennium.
In this year of the London Olympics and Paralympics, it is worth recalling CABE’s role in helping the Olympic Delivery Authority to make certain that good design and value for money were at the heart of the project. CABE ran a special London 2012 design review panel and contributed to the design development of 26 schemes and the Olympic Park. The Olympic Delivery Authority believes that CABE’s advice was vital in making sure design quality was delivered.
Although the department would have liked to continue to fund CABE’s work in driving up the quality of design in the built environment, in the present financial situation it seemed more important to protect the wider culture and heritage sectors. Hence the dissolution order before us today. I beg to move.
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
My Lords, I thank the Minister for that explanation.
The future of CABE has been the subject of some controversy since the coalition Government came to power and I, for one, very much regretted its demise. At the time, it felt like it was just too easy for Jeremy Hunt to offer it up for sacrifice in the first round of spending cuts without really appreciating the arguments as to why advice and guidance on architectural standards and living space was so necessary both for the industry and consumers of design. I am very well aware that CABE’s work and advice were not universally popular, but this is not surprising in an area such as architecture, which is notoriously controversial. However, I believe that, overall, CABE’s legacy is an overwhelmingly positive contribution to design standards in this country.
I talked about CABE’s demise, to which the Minister also referred, but of course part of CABE’s function has now been rescued by the merger with the Design Council, which, in the circumstances, I accept was the best that could be achieved. As I understand it, the merger has effectively already taken place, so the order is, in effect, a tidying-up exercise. However, what is not clear to me—perhaps the Minister could clarify this—is why the assets and functions are being transferred back to the department rather than to the Design Council. What is the legal status of the merger with the Design Council? Is a separate order being prepared that will set out the new role for the Design Council in embracing some of CABE’s functions?
A cynic might suggest that the drafting of the order delivers the complete abolition of CABE with no future legal requirement on the Government to facilitate architectural advice and standards, whereas I had understood that the settlement—a more constructive merger with the Design Council—would maintain those functions at a national level. Also, as the order stands, it would be open to the Minister to cease funding the CABE activities that will now take place within the Design Council without any further reference to Parliament. Is that what is intended? Perhaps the Minister could shed some more light on the processes taking place here.
As the Minister mentioned, if there is one thing that we have already learnt from the Olympics, it is that the UK has some of the finest designers in the world and we know how to create iconic and stunning designs that are also practical and sustainable. Unfortunately, our record on housing design is rather more woeful. The new proposed planning framework is understandably causing consternation that more poor-quality estates that clash with the local environment will spring up, against the wishes of local communities. Surely this is where an organisation such as CABE, even under its new arrangements, could help by working with local authorities and communities to help them to understand the advantages of quality, well built homes, effective landscaping and attractive use of space. Can the Minister confirm that this is the type of role envisaged for the Design Council in the future, that it will be written into its terms of reference and that adequate funding will be provided to ensure that this can be carried out?
I look forward to hearing the Minister’s response on these issues and, on the assumption of a positive response, we will support the order.
Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, I thank the noble Baroness, Lady Jones, for her contribution and for her questions. I quite understand that she regretted the demise of CABE, whose contribution she respected, as we all did.
On where CABE’s responsibilities lie, some of them now lie with the Design Council and some lie with DCMS. They have been distributed, as I think it says in the order.
On the merger with the Design Council, it is very important that the two elements of the leading bodies come together so that local communities are given greater opportunities to have their say on these areas and on the look and feel for the future. The Design Council has been strengthened by bringing in the valuable skills, knowledge and expertise from CABE to create a one-stop shop that will provide a service to industry, councils and local communities. Without the prospect of further funding for CABE from other sources, the remainder of CABE had to be wound up and the organisation dissolved and any remaining property, rights, including those relating to employees, and functions are to be transferred to the Secretary of State. The general proposal was agreed in principle by Ministers in all three departments affected, and the legal status for the dissolution of CABE was agreed in Cabinet in February 2011.
On the transfer of CABE’s statutory functions, while the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act allows for the transfer of CABE’s statutory functions to another organisation, we decided that this was not necessary or appropriate. However the royal charter of the Design Council has been amended to incorporate functions similar to CABE’s. This allows the Government to provide funding under the authority of the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act to the Design Council for carrying out similar activities to those carried out by CABE.
The noble Baroness asked about CABE’s legal status. That has already been taken care of by amending the Design Council's royal charter and the transfer of undertakings and agreements between CABE and the Design Council. The assets and liabilities will remain with the DCMS and the rest have already been transferred to the Design Council.
Despite DCMS's difficulty with the spending review decision, architectural design remains an important priority for the Government, as the noble Baroness said. Part of CABE lives on in the Design Council and Spaceshaper and Engaging Places were found new homes. Above all, the draft planning policy framework demonstrates that the Government attach great importance to the design of the built environment. Our objective for the planning system is to promote good design that makes attractive any usable and durable places, which is a key element in achieving sustainable development. In addition, both the construction strategy and the housing strategy reflect the importance that the Government place on the role of good design. If I have missed any points, I will of course be in touch with the noble Baroness.
Culture and Arts: Funding
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch(12 years, 11 months ago)
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Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
To ask Her Majesty’s Government what steps they are taking to minimise the impact on arts and cultural activities of local authority cuts.
Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, this Government believe that the arts should look for funding from as many different sources as possible. It is for each local authority to decide how and to whom it distributes its funds. Central government will provide over £800 million to the arts, museums and heritage through grant in aid in this financial year. We are also working with bodies in this area to improve their fundraising capabilities.
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
I thank the Minister for that reply. Given the scale of the cutbacks in local authority funding, is she concerned that councils are disproportionately cutting local arts projects to protect other essential services? Does she recognise the large disparities that are developing in arts activities between one council and another, with some areas in effect becoming cultural deserts? As the noble Baroness knows, some councils are proposing cuts of up to 100 per cent. Is this the time for the Government to consider imposing a statutory duty on councils to fund local arts provision?
Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, the noble Baroness, Lady Jones, raised several important points. I will try to answer them all. Her Majesty's Government appreciate that local authorities have had to make difficult decisions on spending. The noble Baroness is absolutely right that it is harder for smaller, regional bodies to cope with the changes. However, we are glad that some enlightened councils have recognised not only the economic contribution that the arts can make to an area but the way they enhance the environment in which we live. Her last point was about imposing a statutory duty, but this would only add to the burdens placed on local government at a time when deregulation is a priority. It is right to give responsibility to local communities and local authorities to take the decisions that are most appropriate to their areas.
Children: Television
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
Baroness Rawlings
I am sure that that is exactly one of the areas that we will be including in the communications Green Paper. While the whole world outside will be celebrating the Olympics and the Jubilee, your Lordships will have the pleasure of the exciting communications Green Paper and the Leveson review, which will be looking into all forms of broadcasting.
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
My Lords, given that there is inevitably limited space on the front pages of EPGs, does the Minister agree that greater priority should be given to ensuring that public service broadcasters and, as part of that, quality children’s programmes should appear on the front pages, rather than the Secretary of State’s declared policy of giving priority to local TV?
Baroness Rawlings
Regarding local television, the Government want local services to achieve EPG prominence on Freeview through acquiring a sufficiently high channel number. The Government hope that this will be Channel 8, which is currently vacant in England and Northern Ireland, and another high number for services in Wales and Scotland where Channel 8 is already in use.
BBC: Licence Fee
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
Baroness Rawlings
The noble Earl, Lord Clancarty, asks a very valid question. We are worried about the transfer. It worked with television but we are not sure yet what is going to happen with radio. However, the licence fee settlement stated that the BBC will commit to funding the rollout of the national DAB multiplexes. We trust and hope that this will work out properly.
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
My Lords, notwithstanding the BBC’s settlement, can the Minister clarify whether it is the Government’s intention to revisit the licence fee to take account of developing technologies in the forthcoming communications Bill?
Baroness Rawlings
The noble Baroness, Lady Jones, brings up a good point. The current BBC charter expires on 31 December 2016. The timing and scope of the next charter review are a matter for Ministers, but no decision has yet been taken. The last charter review began three years before the expiry of the previous charter, and the subject will no doubt be brought up during the meetings on the draft communications Bill.
Media: Ownership
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, if there is a renewed bid, it will have to be looked at on its merits. As with any other bid, on another occasion it could be possible to include additional grounds for intervention, such as a genuine commitment to broadcasting standards. However, we are not proposing to frame legislation with the aim of blocking any specific deal. If or when we come forward with proposals, they will have to protect plurality in all circumstances.
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
My Lords, does the Minister agree that, in the light of all that has occurred, it would be unwise for the Prime Minister or the Secretary of State to meet members of the Murdoch family privately? Can she give an assurance that it is now the policy that any such meetings will be attended by civil servants and properly minuted?
Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, I am sure that the noble Baroness knows that no meetings are allowed to take place without civil servants being present.
Media: News International
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, the noble Baroness makes a very valid point, to which the Prime Minister will be speaking this morning.
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
My Lords, can the Minister confirm that the Cabinet Secretary carried out all the necessary checks on Andy Coulson before he was appointed to a very senior post at the heart of government? Can she clarify how and when the Cabinet Secretary’s advice to the Prime Minister on this appointment will be published?
Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, the Cabinet Secretary had given him a vetting for his grade.
Audiovisual Media Services Directive
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
Baroness Rawlings
My noble friend Lady Gardner is absolutely right. Some have not paid, but this is being looked at and is why Ofcom is going to be the backstop to follow these points through.
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
Will the Minister explain exactly what backstop powers Ofcom has retained in order to intervene if it feels that ATVOD is not carrying out its functions properly? Does she agree with the original point made by the noble Lord, Lord Clement-Jones, that it has exceeded and expanded its role way beyond that which was designated in the original directive and that it needs to focus much more carefully just on raising standards in the video-on-demand industry?
Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, this has been gone through because of public consultation, and the actual responsibilities delegated to ATVOD include setting and collecting the fees from the VOD service providers to meet the estimated costs of carrying out ATVOD functions. ATVOD’s power to set and collect fees is subject to Ofcom’s prior written approval.
Media Ownership (Radio and Cross-media) Order 2011
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
My Lords, I thank the Minister for her very helpful introduction to the order. We have debated media plurality before in the context of the national media, and she will know that it is an issue about which many noble Lords across your Lordships’ House have voiced concerns. In many ways, the fundamental issues remain the same: in a vibrant democracy, it is not in our interests to allow a monopoly of news and opinion to dominate media outlets. Consumers need a guarantee of choice and diversity.
That is why Ofcom, quite rightly, has been cautious in its advice on this matter when it has been sought by Ministers. I have read the advice issued by it on local media rules both in 2009 and 2010. It appears that it is only with some reluctance that it is recommending a further step towards the liberalisation of the remaining rules of local ownership. We understand that reluctance because, whatever the immediate circumstances might be that force us to go along with a more laissez-faire approach, it remains the case that once the rules of ownership are relaxed it is difficult to backtrack should an unhealthy monopoly develop. We have to be satisfied that the Secretary of State remains committed to the fundamental principles of plurality, is alive to any threats and is prepared to intervene under their remaining powers if necessary.
However, we are also sensitive to the difficult commercial environment currently challenging local media. I say to my noble friend Lord Prescott that, on this issue, we differentiate between trends at local and national level, because it is true that local advertising revenues are down and many local newspapers are struggling to survive. As we have heard, those that do survive are cutting back on quality and local reportage. Meanwhile, the pressure of competition from multimedia outlets across a wide spectrum of platforms is damaging the economic viability of local radio. Those services still have a valuable customer base, but are in danger of becoming commercially untenable. The noble Lord, Lord Fowler, and my noble friend Lord Gordon both made powerful cases for strengthening the role of the regional press and local radio in delivering diversity in local media output. We therefore recognise that if the Government were to maintain too strong a grip on the issues of local plurality, it might be at the expense of the very services we are seeking to protect. So, along with our undeniable caution, there is a case for some pragmatism.
As the noble Lord, Lord Clement-Jones, reminded us and as Ofcom pointed out, we are protected from a complete monopoly at a local level by the continuing strength of BBC local radio. But, as we know, the BBC is reviewing the scope of its output in many areas in response to the licence fee cut. Can the Minister update the House on any discussions held between her department and the BBC about its continuing commitment to and resourcing of local radio?
The Government have also created great publicity around their plans for local television. While we are not yet convinced of the commercial viability of these proposals, we nevertheless acknowledge that if they were to be realised, local TV could provide new players in the market locally and thereby increase the diversity of media outlets. However, this would be the case only if the plurality rules were applied to ensure that one proprietor could not own local TV, local radio and local newspapers in the area. In other words, what would stop one person controlling all the commercial radio and TV output in, for example, Manchester? Can the Minister guarantee to the House that, should the order be agreed, the liberalisation of the rules would not be extended to local TV? It would be helpful if she could update us on progress in this regard.
If we approve the order today the last backstop preventing local media monopoly is the Secretary of State and his residual powers to apply the public interest test. So far his track record in this regard is not good. His handling of the debacle of Murdoch’s proposed takeover of BSkyB, which he has continued to support against a barrage of criticism from the public, politicians and media competitors, shows a callous failure to defend the principles of media plurality. My noble friend Lord Prescott has, quite rightly, again raised concerns about the credibility of the Murdoch empire in going forward and seizing further control of national media.
What reassurance can the Minister give the House today that the Secretary of State understands the strong demand for diverse media outlets in this country as part of a vibrant democracy and that he is prepared to actively intervene to prevent media barons’ creating monopolies at a local level? There is a crisis of confidence in his role and we still need convincing that he remains ready to stand up for these principles. On this issue I share the comment of the noble Baroness, Lady Howe, that a robust restatement of the role and status of public interest would be helpful.
There remains a residual protection against the development of unfair monopolies in that the Government give a commitment in the Explanatory Memorandum to reviewing the new measures a year after they come into effect. Can the Minister give some clarification as to the nature of that review and how it will be reported back to Parliament?
I hope, with suitable reassurances on these points, we will be able to support the order today.
Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, I thank all noble Lords who have contributed to this interesting and lively debate. I am grateful, too, to those noble Lords who have given the order their support.
I appreciate that the order may raise some concerns about the need to protect a wide variety of opinions and views in our media; equally, we acknowledge the argument that greater consolidation at a local level could lead to a reduction in locally made content. However, we believe that the draft order strikes the right balance between recognising that the local media markets have changed and the need to protect consumers’ interests and needs. The best way to secure high-quality local content and diversity is by creating a framework in which local media businesses can thrive, innovate and compete.
It is these principles which underpin the Government’s current proposals for local television, which will add to choice and balance at the local level. Television is a powerful and trusted medium and local television has the potential to offer many social and democratic benefits to communities and economic benefits to the local media industry. As I said earlier, the rules that this order removes have always been in addition to general competition rules and the public interest test. These remain in place to make sure that there is proper choice to protect against undue concentration.
I turn now to the specific questions asked by noble Lords who have contributed to the debate. I accept the vast knowledge of my noble friend Lord Fowler on this subject and I agree that the regional press are greatly trusted. I thank him for his support, especially in regard to the public interest test. He asked about competition rules, an issue which I suggest should be considered by the communications review. DCMS recently published an open letter inviting responses to high-level questions related to the communications review. Responses to these questions will inform our approach to a communications Green Paper, due to be published at the end of this year, which will in turn be followed by a full consultation and White Paper. I encourage all noble Lords to contribute.
On the question of local newspapers and their ownership, I was interested to read that over 80 per cent of local and regional titles in the United Kingdom are owned by six publishing groups—Archant, Associated News, Johnston Press, Newsquest, Northcliffe and Trinity Mirror Group—which have made some progress despite the downturn over the past two or three years.
I thank the noble Lord, Lord Gordon of Strathblane, for his constructive intervention. With his long experience, he is always interesting when speaking on this subject and I support what he said.
My noble friend Lord Clement-Jones asked why the order took so long. It was due to parliamentary business, the Easter Recess and the Recess we have just had. He asked about public interest and sufficient plurality, as did the noble Lord, Lord Prescott. I assure the noble Lords that plurality can still be maintained through competition law and, where appropriate, the public interest test. Plurality means giving citizens access to a variety of sources of news, an essential part of a democratic society resulting in a healthy media sector.
On the issue of emerging local television and the possibility of investing in further local television, the Government believe that one of the barriers preventing commercially sustainable local television from emerging in the UK was the restrictions around media ownership. With the removal of the rules for local media, which are now no longer necessary, local media companies will be free to affiliate and develop cost-effective local television service models, benefitting from syndication of resources, journalists and technical expertise, much as mentioned by the noble Lord, Lord Gordon.
The noble Lord, Lord Prescott, returned to the Sky debate and his concern about hacking. On the merger of BSkyB and where it has got to, this is not the subject of today’s debate. However, I can confirm that the Secretary of State is now considering the responses made to the consultation and will make a statement as soon as possible. This merger is being considered under the public interest rules and I can confirm to the House that these rules will remain untouched by this order. The Secretary of State is following a quasi-judicial process and this is a matter for him. I am sure the House will appreciate that I can discuss only the process. The Secretary of State has followed a very transparent process and has published even more than is required by legislation. As to the phone hacking mentioned by the noble Lord, Lord Prescott, as I have said before, these are serious allegations—but they are matters for the criminal courts and not for this debate today.
In answer to the points made by the noble Baroness, Lady Howe, who knows so much about the press and public interest, the public interest takes account of the need for those,
“persons carrying on media enterprises … to have a genuine commitment to the attainment in relation to broadcasting of the standards objectives set out in … the Communications Act 2003”—
which she probably knows well.
Broadcasting: Product Placement
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, I thank my noble friend Lady Gardner for that question. Following Ofcom’s introduction in 2011 of new rules for product placement on television, a large double P logo must appear on the screen for a minimum of three seconds at the start and the end of any programmes. The logo must also appear at the return of the programme following any advertising breaks.
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
My Lords, as the Minister will know, it is very much early days in the application of the new product placement rules. However, can she assure the House that the department will work very closely with Ofcom to ensure that children’s television remains solidly safeguarded from any creep towards the exploitation that product placement might entail?
Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, the noble Baroness is absolutely right. We believe that it is right to be cautious initially so as not to alienate viewers, and special safeguards have been put in place on what may be promoted in this way. Some, such as restrictions on product placement of alcohol and prescription medicines, are set out in European law, and some in the UK regulations—such as the restrictions on foods high in fat, salt and sugar, which largely match the current advertising restrictions.
Media: BBC
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, my noble friend Lady Gardner brings up a very good point. It is essential for the public to have all the knowledge possible regarding the accounts of the BBC, and the NAO will have access to all the information that it considers relevant. However, publication of information by the NAO will, of course, need to be consistent with the existing legislation on privacy and data protection.
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
My Lords, does the Minister agree with the noble Lord, Lord Patten, in his evidence to the Lords Communications Committee this week that the BBC should be transparent and accountable, but also that the NAO’s programme of inquiry should be properly planned and not just a random exercise or simply responsive to the whims of the media?
Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, I am sure that I agree with the Secretary of State—and you would not expect differently. Her Majesty’s Government are not seeking to appoint the NAO as the BBC’s auditor as we do not see that as central to delivering the coalition commitment. However, we are aware that the BBC Trust is happy for the NAO to compete for this role when the current contract expires in 2012.
Public Bodies Bill [HL]
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch(13 years, 8 months ago)
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Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
My Lords, I am grateful to my noble friend Lord Whitty for continuing to champion the organisations that stand out as protecting consumer interests, and for the remarkable good sense that he has shown again this evening in defending Ofcom's independence.
During the passage of the Bill there have been several attempts by Ministers to make reassuring noises about the importance of Ofcom and its central role in the future of media regulation. This may well be the case, but I share my noble friend's concern that the thrust of these changes, far from giving Ofcom greater responsibility, will limit its power to intervene in crucial issues such as media ownership and changes to public broadcasting. Power appears now to be increasingly centralised in the hands of the Secretary of State.
As is the case with many other organisations for which changes are sought in the Bill, one is left to wonder about the cost savings that might occur if the Minister's department is serious about taking on those functions. I concur with the questions of the noble Lord, Lord Fowler, about the proposed savings expected from Ofcom in this context. The Government have trumpeted the increased transparency that will occur, but it remains unclear how we will be able to scrutinise the major decisions that will be taken in the department on issues such as media control. When it comes to transparency, give me Ofcom any day.
My noble friend repeatedly emphasised, in previous debates and today, the special status of the economic regulators and the need to protect their independent function. Again, the Government took steps in the past to reassure the House on this matter. However, like other noble Lords today, I am left wondering why they felt that it was necessary to put the remaining changes to Ofcom in the Bill, and whether this still represents a shift in power and authority away from independent economic regulators and back to the centre. If this is the case, it is a backward step both for the consumer and for the wider public, as well as being a cause for celebration for would-be media barons. I remain unconvinced of the need to change Ofcom's role through the formal mechanism of the Bill, and very much look forward to hearing the Minister’s justification of why it is necessary.
Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, I thank the noble Lord, Lord Whitty, for tabling these amendments and for giving the Government the opportunity to state clearly to your Lordships' House how they intend to use the powers in Clauses 4 and 5 to reform Ofcom. The noble Lord asked why Ofcom is included in Schedules 4 and 5 to the Bill. This is so that we can bring forward several small changes to some of its duties that will make certain that it will be able to fulfil its statutory duties as efficiently and effectively as possible.
The communications landscape has changed significantly over the past decade, since Ofcom was established by the Office of Communications Act 2002. It is sensible and timely that we now use this opportunity to make some changes. At a time when the public sector must become more efficient, it is right to amend or remove some of Ofcom's duties, which will result in a small reduction in its cost to the public purse. I confirm that Ofcom is comfortable with the proposed changes to its duties. In answer to the concerns raised by the noble Lord, Lord Hunt, in our last debate on these amendments, I can reassure him that the overarching responsibilities of Ofcom will not change, and that its independence will remain a fundamental principle of regulating the communications sector.
I note, too, that the noble Lord is concerned that the Government may look to introducing additional changes in years to come using the Public Bodies Bill. I can reassure him that we have no plans to make any additional changes to Ofcom’s duties other than the nine small changes that we propose to bring forward by order after the Public Bodies Bill receives Royal Assent.
Public Bodies Bill [HL]
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch(13 years, 8 months ago)
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Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
My Lords, I thank my noble friend Lady Whitaker for pursuing this issue today and for allowing noble Lords from all sides of the House to emphasise the vital role that libraries continue to play in their community. Once again, the debate has highlighted the major disquiet that many people feel that their cherished local libraries will not survive the squeeze of local government cuts. This is at the heart of the problem because there is a sense that no one in government is championing their cause. You could say that libraries are an orphan service looking for shelter at a time of economic uncertainty and so far have not found it. On the one hand, policy for libraries still lies with DCMS—I am sure that the Minister will once again speak warmly of the important service that libraries provide—while, on the other, the money to fund the library service lies with DCLG, whose overriding obsession seems to be to cut budgets at any cost.
The Government are already taking steps to abolish the only other national library advisory body, the Museums, Libraries & Archives Council. Now, the only national body able to speak up for the service is to be subsumed into the Arts Council, with a real fear that it will disappear for good.
I do not feel in a position to judge the success of the Advisory Council on Libraries, but I agree with my noble friend Lady Bakewell that libraries around the country are already going through a revolution, opening up their venues to new forms of learning and studying, providing essential access to information and making the links between books, music, theatre and the wider arts. Staff are doing a magnificent job in redefining the service for the 21st century so that libraries remain relevant and loved by their local community.
How can we be reassured that the Arts Council will retain the professional knowledge to give the advice that libraries will need if they are to flourish? How can we be sure that the Arts Council will champion the service when it has so many other priorities? Is this amendment not just a small gesture to reassure libraries at least that the department is serious about protecting their interests at a time of such uncertainty in the rest of the sector?
Baroness Rawlings
My Lords, I am grateful to all noble Lords who have spoken. I thank the noble Baroness, Lady Whitaker, for tabling the amendment and for giving the Government the opportunity to make it absolutely clear that we are committed to the effective management of library services. Consequently, we totally support the underlying spirit of what is a probing amendment. I thank the noble Baroness also for her openness to constructive dialogue on this issue. It has led to a position where the department is under no illusions about the importance of this issue in your Lordships’ House and where the Government can provide clear reassurances about how advice is provided to local authorities.
It is worth me making clear from the outset that we believe that existing legislation provides sufficient protection for library services. The Public Libraries and Museums Act 1964 requires the Secretary of State to superintend, and to promote the improvement of, the library service provided by local authorities in England and to make certain that local authorities fulfil their duties as defined by the Act. The noble Baroness, Lady Bakewell, made a good point about local authorities. That is why we are pressing for improvement.
Ministers are committed to fulfilling their statutory duties. The Secretary of State is providing important practical help and advice for libraries and contributing to the improvement and development of the sector through the Future Libraries Programme. The programme was announced in July and is led by the Museums, Libraries & Archives Council and the Local Government Association. They support more than 30 local authorities participating in the programme to explore options that will help them to deliver more efficiently the front-line services that communities want and need. In line with the decentralisation agenda, the programme encourages local authorities to find their own solutions to the challenges that they face.
The noble Baroness, Lady Jones, felt that there was no support for libraries. I say to her with due respect that she is mistaken, as the goal of the Future Libraries Programme is to share insights from the 10 pilot projects. This will allow local authorities to identify ways in which effective and efficient services can be maintained by taking a longer-term and more strategic approach to the way that libraries are improved. In addition to the Future Libraries Programme, the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council promotes best practice and provides support and guidance to local authorities. Arts Council England will assume responsibility for improving and developing library services following the abolition of the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council. We will work with Arts Council England and Local Government Improvement and Development to continue to make the best-quality advice available and accessible to support local authorities. We will be discussing a new programme of projects to drive the improvement of library services.
This Government are acutely aware of the statutory obligations needed to improve library services and to make certain that local authorities have the advice and support that they need to deliver an effective service. The noble Viscount, Lord Falkland, is right: there are good ones and bad ones, and I reiterate the need to make the improvements. This obligation and this Government’s commitment already exist without the addition of a further statutory duty such as that proposed in the noble Baroness’s amendment, and therefore I hope that she will feel able to withdraw it.
Video Recordings Act 2010
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
Baroness Rawlings
My noble friend Lord Renton raises a good point. The internet is not covered in the Video Recordings Act, which applies only to physical copies of video material available to buy or rent. The Video Recordings Act dates from the early 1980s, before the possibility of the internet as we know it now was even considered. I remember it well because I was on the British Board of Video Classification at that time, from the start and for several years.
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
My Lords, does the Minister agree that in the 25 years since the Video Recordings Act was first passed, the content of video games and other exempt video material has changed beyond recognition? Is she therefore concerned that this means that inappropriate and potentially harmful content in such works is now legally being supplied to children? If so, does she understand the urgency of the matter?
Baroness Rawlings
I agree with the noble Baroness, Lady Jones. This issue is being researched and there are varied opinions. However, we can all agree that some material is, quite simply, inappropriate for children. The consultation will consider how best to achieve the position where children are not exposed to inappropriate material.
Museums and Galleries
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch(13 years, 10 months ago)
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Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
My Lords, does the Minister recognise the crucial role of local councils in funding local and specialist museums and galleries? What steps will the department take to preserve these collections when the cuts in local council funding inevitably take their toll on those collections?
Baroness Rawlings
The Government are very much aware of these issues, which is why we have followed through with the Renaissance programme for arts, galleries and museums in the regions. The Museums, Libraries and Archives Council and some other bodies are being passed on to the Arts Council England to ensure that these galleries and museums are properly looked after.
Wedgwood Museum
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch(13 years, 11 months ago)
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Baroness Rawlings
I am grateful to my noble friend Lady Bonham-Carter. It will be ring-fenced. The £1.3 million given to the British Museum is very important. I thank her for that question.
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
My Lords, does the Minister acknowledge the overarching responsibility of the department to preserve for the nation not only the important collection at the Wedgwood museum but those of a number of other specialist and iconic museums, such as the Geffrye museum, the Horniman museum and the Design Museum, which are currently under threat from cuts in her department?
Baroness Rawlings
I am aware of these other museums and the issue is being looked into at the moment.
Media: Ownership
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
Baroness Rawlings
After being examined by the Competition Commission and Ofcom, it will go to DG4 of the European Commission. Only when the Secretary of State has heard the representations from all those bodies will he make the final decision. It has to go through all those three stages, which will take until the end of the year.
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
My Lords, will the noble Baroness clarify something? If Ofcom’s position is so secure, why is it on the endangered list in the Public Bodies Bill, as has been referred to?
BBC: Licence Fee
Debate between Baroness Rawlings and Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
Baroness Rawlings
I thank my noble friend for his question. The Government have reservations about the current governance structure and are considering the scope for change within the current charter framework. The governance structure was introduced in January 2007 when the charter came into full effect. The structure is intended to last for the duration of the charter—that is, until the end of 2016.
Baroness Jones of Whitchurch
My Lords, is the Minister concerned that Sir Christopher Bland recently talked of the licence fee being used in a punitive and vindictive manner? What reassurances can she give that any decisions about its future will be free from political partisanship?
Baroness Rawlings
In giving those details, I think that the noble Baroness is referring to the previous Government. We have no punitive agreements. There will possibly be cuts, but those are in the hands of the BBC Trust.