Scottish answer to the BBC

Culture Minister Fiona Hyslop has commissioned a panel of experts to review proposals for the creation of a new Scottish digital network to rival the BBC.

The review comes two years after a report by Scottish Broadcasting Commission said a digital network to be “the most effective way both to address the deficit of public service broadcasting in Scotland, and to provide secure and sustainable competition to the BBC”.

A recent press release from the Scottish government said that it found 80 per cent of people to be interested in a Scottish digital network providing both television and internet channels.

Ms Hyslop said the concept would “provide new opportunities to develop talent, ideas, and the creative economy.”

“After more than fifty years of opt-out television services, a dedicated Scottish network would completely transform our perspective. There is unanimous support for the network in the Scottish government and recognition of its potential to develop Scotland’s broadcasting sector.

“Scottish audiences deserve their own network, embracing television, online and interactive content.”

Head of the panel will be former BBC Scotland News boss Blair Jenkins, previously chair of the Scottish Broadcasting Commission.

The panel will also include Stirling University professor Neil Blain, Herald editor Charles McGhee, Downing corporate finance director Judith Mackenzie, and David Wightman, a former member of the Scottish Broadcasting Commission.

The panel’s report is due in early 2011.