Hull Labour has reacted furiously to the cuts to BBC Local Radio that have been announced, including to the popular local radio station which covers Hull, Radio Humberside.
The move, which would see an end to local programming after 2pm and weekends, risks cutting many residents off from vital news and information.
Hull Labour feel that given the decline of printed newspapers, and reliable news sources, there is an increasing need for reliable fair reporting of local events, for local people to stay connected. Labour also is very concerned at the threat of redundancy and the loss of skilled presenters, with in-depth local knowledge, who care for this community. Labour share the concerns expressed by the NUJ nationally and locally.
“These proposals are a dagger to the heart of localism, and pose a major democratic deficit. Without local news, and BBC local radio, who will hold the decision makers to account?” said Cllr Daren Hale, Leader of Hull Labour Group.
“Local Radio is a lifeline for many isolated and elderly people, keeping them in touch with the wider community. Equally parents rely on Local Radio for information about school closures, winter weather issues, and urgent traffic news around accidents.” said Cllr Hester Bridges, Deputy Leader of the Labour Group.
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