Television Licence Evasion

Debate between Lord Fowler and Lord Foster of Bath

Tuesday 26th January 2021 Lords Chamber

[The Lord Speaker (Lord Fowler)]

I call the noble and learned Lord, Lord Morris of Aberavon. Lord Morris? No, he is not here. I call the noble Lord, Lord Foster of Bath.

[Lord Foster of Bath (LD) [V]]

My Lords, over the last few months the Rupert Murdoch-owned radio station talkRADIO has been using its broadcasting licence to wage war against the BBC licence fee and its collection. Last week saw a particularly egregious example, which was blatant and inaccurate propaganda, designed to pursue commercial self-interest. Does the Minister agree that if it is to maintain its reputation as the guardian of impartiality and accuracy in broadcasting, Ofcom should investigate and act?

[Baroness Barran (Con)]

The noble Lord is right that it is absolutely Ofcom’s responsibility to address issues such as the one he has just raised.