BBC Local Radio

The hon. Gentleman is correct in his comments about the rigour, impartiality and accuracy that underpin the BBC's work. The BBC's local and regional output is a core part of its work. Without it, I wonder whether it is possible for the BBC to fulfil both its mission to inform, educate and entertain and its public purpose, which is set out in its charter. For example, it has a duty to represent the different nations, regions and communities and portray and celebrate their range of cultures and communities at a national, regional and local levels.