Yesterday, alongside all Humber MPs as we met with BBC Director General Tim Davie to discuss the proposed cuts to BBC Local Radio in our region. We all share the view that our local communities rely heavily on BBC Radio Humberside to provide them with the latest news, sport, and current affairs, and it would be a huge shame to see this service drastically reduced.

The proposed cuts are part of the BBC’s cost-cutting measures, which have unfortunately resulted in devastating plans to reduce the local news service in the Humber region by forty hours per week. This would impact both listeners and members of staff at BBC Radio Humberside.

In yesterday’s meeting, we expressed our concerns, hoping that constructive dialogue will take place. I believe that the cuts would have a significant impact on the local community and economy, which is why we urged the BBC Director General to consider alternatives.

BBC Radio Humberside has been a key part of our region’s heritage for decades and has a loyal listener base who rely on it for their daily updates. This service has been particularly important during the pandemic, with many relying on the station to keep them informed and up-to-date on the latest developments in their local area.

I will continue to work together as cross-party MPs to ensure that the Humber region is not left without a reliable and informative local radio service, which plays a vital role in holding the government and local authorities to account.

It’s crucial that a constructive dialogue takes place, which will allow us to discuss of alternative cost-cutting measures that will not compromise the excellent service that BBC Radio Humberside currently provides. I urge the BBC to consider the impact that these cuts will have on the local community and economy, and to seek alternative savings that do not jeopardize this great service.

I was glad to have the opportunity to meet with the BBC Director General and discuss our concerns over the proposed cuts. I hope that a constructive dialogue will now take place, and that the BBC will work with us to find a way of safeguarding the future of BBC Local Radio in our region. Together, we can ensure that the people of the Humber region continue to receive the high-quality local radio service they deserve.