BBC Local Video Proposals -Analysis of Public Consultation

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BBC local video proposals Analysis of public consultation

September 2008

Table of Contents

1. INTRODUCTION 3

2. OVERVIEW AND EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 5

3. MAIN REPORT 17

3.1 Question 1: How important is it that the BBC improves its depth and breadth of local news coverage? 17

3.2 Question 2: Are the proposals outlined here an effective way for the BBC to improve its coverage of local news and events? 21

3.3 Question 3: To what extent do you believe the service, as outlined, will contribute to these public purposes? 25

3.4 Question 4: How distinctive (or different) is the proposal from other internet local news services, which offer video content? 29

3.5 Question 5: What role should the BBC take in the development of local video news? 33

3.6 Question 6: What effect, if any, would the proposal have on your interest in, and consumption of, local news? 36

3.7 Question 7: In which ways, if any, would the proposal benefit; you and your family, your local community, your local area? 39

3.8 Question 8: The service as outlined would be available only to those with a broadband internet connection. Is this the best way for news to reach you and your community? 43

3.9 Question 9: The service, if approved, will cost approximately £23 million per annum at maturity. To what extent do you think this service represents a good use of the licence fee, both generally and compared to other possible areas for investment? 47

3.10 Question 10: Are there any other issues regarding the public value assessment of local video proposals you would like the Trust to consider? 50

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1. INTRODUCTION

The BBC Executive has applied for permission to provide an on-demand, local video service, delivered via fixed and mobile broadband internet connections. At launch the service would not be available on any other platform. Local video is a web based proposition using broadband technology to deliver video journalism.

Local video would expand upon the BBC’s existing network of local websites. The service would offer bespoke video, focussed chiefly on news and sport, but also including weather, user generated content and knowledge building genre. It would add a new tier of local news gathering to local news provision on bbc.co.uk.

The service would be available in 60 areas across the UK equivalent to the coverage of the BBC’s existing network of local websites and radio services. Content would be produced locally and would be free at the point of use, without advertising.

The BBC Trust set out a number of questions to help respondents frame their answers. Respondents replied at the BBC Trust’s website to 10 set questions.

This report contains a summary in Section 3 of the findings from the 131 responses to the BBC Trust’s website. This report covers responses from individuals. Responses from industry stakeholders and audience groups have been analysed in a separate document. A large proportion of responses were from individuals in the county of Dorset, therefore these results have been analysed separately to show any differences in responses.

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BREAKDOWN OF RESPONSES

Total number of responses: 131

Responding as... Total % Dorset % Other % Individual 117 89% 50 94% 67 86% Organisation 11 8% 1 2% 10 13% Not given 3 2% 2 4% 1 1% Total 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

Location Total % Dorset % Other % England 115 88% 53 100% 62 79% Wales 8 6% 0 0% 8 10% Scotland 3 2% 0 0% 3 4% Isle of Man 2 2% 0 0% 2 3% Northern Ireland 2 2% 0 0% 2 3% Not given 1 1% 0 0% 1 1% Total 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

Sex Total % Dorset % Other % Female 30 23% 20 38% 10 13% Male 95 73% 29 55% 66 85% Not given 6 5% 4 8% 2 3% Total 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

Age Total % Dorset % Other % 16-24 6 5% 0 0% 6 8% 25-34 5 4% 0 0% 5 6% 35-44 19 15% 3 6% 16 21% 45-54 26 20% 8 15% 18 23% 55-64 38 29% 22 42% 16 21% 65+ 29 22% 15 28% 14 18% Not given 8 6% 5 9% 3 4% Total 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

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2. OVERVIEW and EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

• There is a strong feeling from over 90% of the respondents that it is important for the BBC to improve its depth and breadth of local news coverage. • The strength of feeling appears stronger in the Dorset area: 40% of the total responses were from respondents living in this region. Of these, 85% thought that it is essential/extremely important/very important for the BBC to improve local news coverage (compared with 59% of the rest of the sample not living in Dorset). • Nearly half of all respondents state that the proposal would increase their interest in/consumption of local news in some way. Again this is higher in Dorset at 57% compared to 40% amongst other respondents. • The majority of respondents feel that the BBC should take either a leading or supporting role in the development of local video news. However, just less than half the respondents believe the service will contribute to the two public purposes specified; reservations relate to how some may be excluded from the service due to method of delivery. • 43% of respondents agreed that the proposals are an effective way for the BBC to improve its coverage of local news and events. However again respondents mention a number of issues to be resolved in relation to cost of the service, its geographic coverage and method of delivery. • Just 38% of the sample agrees that broadband is currently the best method to disseminate local news; there is a strong feeling that this will exclude certain sections of the community without internet/broadband access. Again this feeling is stronger in Dorset (60%) compared to the rest of the respondents (40%). • The proposals are seen as being different from other proposals by two thirds of respondents; the points of difference being that the BBC is

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seen as having a better reputation than others, is likely to be more professional and provide a more locally focussed, less commercial service. • Nearly half of all the respondents agreed that the proposed service represents good value for money or good use of the licence fee. • 47% of respondents provided additional ad hoc comments. The greatest proportion of these related to the need for greater local emphasis and again that the service should be accessible to everyone.

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

2.1 Q1. How important is it that the BBC improves its depth and breadth of local news coverage?

Total number of responses: 131

Q1 Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

Essential 23 18% 14 27% 9 12% Extremely important 15 11% 8 15% 7 9% Very important 53 40% 23 43% 30 38% Important 29 22% 8 15% 21 27% Not important 11 8% 0 0% 11 14% TOTAL 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

The majority of respondents feel it is important that the BBC improves its depth and breadth of local news coverage, with 69% feeling more strongly about its importance (very important to essential). This result was 85% amongst respondents from the Dorset area and 59% from other respondents.

There appears to be a strong feeling that currently more in-depth local news is either lacking or not accessible for many. Some feel that the BBC should be providing this where others are failing to do so – e.g. ITV and the local press.

Some respondents express reservations in that the service should be truly local and also that it should not cut across existing provision from other organisations.

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2.2 Q2. Are the proposals outlined here an effective way for the BBC to improve its coverage of local news and events?

Total number of responses: 131

Q2 Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

Yes 56 43% 23 43% 33 42% Maybe 17 13% 7 13% 10 13% It’s a start 9 7% 8 15% 1 1% No 22 17% 6 11% 16 21% Don't know 27 21% 9 17% 18 23% TOTAL 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

43% of respondents agreed that the proposals outlined were an effective way for the BBC to improve its coverage of local news and events. These results were similar across Dorset and other areas.

However there were a number of comments raising concerns in relation to cost, geographic coverage and delivery of the service.

Concerns were also raised as to how this would affect existing BBC services and should the priority be elsewhere.

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2.3 Q3. To what extent do you believe the service, as outlined, will contribute to public purposes?

Total number of responses: 131

Q3 Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

Significantly 4 3% 2 4% 2 3% Very much 8 6% 3 6% 5 6% A great deal/a lot 46 35% 23 43% 23 29% Yes – TOTAL 58 44% 28 53% 30 38% General sceptical view 24 18% 9 17% 15 19% Not at all 19 15% 6 11% 13 17% Other 22 17% 7 13% 15 19% Unable to answer 6 5% 2 4% 4 5% Don’t know 2 2% 1 2% 1 1% TOTAL 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

Just under half (44%) of respondents believe that the service as outlined will contribute to the two public purposes “Representing the UK’s nations regions and communities” and “Sustaining citizenship and civil society”.

Respondents in the Dorset area are more likely to agree (53%).

Only 15% of the sample felt that the service would NOT contribute to the two public purposes and 18% were sceptical.

There was quite a mixed response in terms of comments given.

Reservations and negative comments revolve around how many people will be excluded from the service due to the nature of delivery and the make up of geographic regions. There are also some concerns about the quality of the service.

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2.4 Q4. How distinctive (or different) is the proposal from other internet local news services, which offer video content?

Total number of responses: 131

Q4 Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

The proposal is locally focussed 16 12% 9 17% 7 9% BBC is better/better reputation 13 10% 3 6% 10 13% It is a better/more extensive proposal 11 8% 3 6% 8 10% The BBC is impartial and fair 9 7% 3 6% 6 8% Not as commercial/less advertising 4 3% 2 4% 2 3% It is not different 4 3% 0 0% 4 5% Unable to compare/too early to say 12 9% 4 8% 8 10% Other 32 24% 16 30% 16 21% Don’t know 30 23% 13 25% 17 22% TOTAL 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

While a third of respondents were not able to answer the question, the proposal was seen as being different by approximately two thirds of respondents.

The points of difference are mainly that the BBC is seen as having a better reputation compared to other providers and is therefore likely to provide a better more professional service; the proposal is more locally focussed and is less commercial.

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2.5 Q5. What role should the BBC take in the development of local video news?

Total number of responses: 131

Q5 Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

Leading role/lead by example/set standards 46 35% 19 36% 27 35% Significant/important role 11 8% 7 13% 4 5% Focus more on local news 20 15% 10 19% 10 13% Support role/training role 11 8% 2 4% 9 12% Active role/encourage participation from other parties 4 3% 2 4% 2 3% Behind the scenes role 3 2% 2 4% 1 1% No role-should not be up to them 11 8% 1 2% 10 13% Other 14 11% 6 11% 8 10% Don’t know 11 8% 4 8% 7 9% TOTAL 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

There appears to be a strong feeling (from 43% of respondents) that the BBC should take a leading role in the development of local video news. This is because it has the resources, the expertise and professionalism to do so.

These results are consistent across the Dorset area and other areas.

A further third (28%) believe the BBC should be involved in some form in the development of local video news – possibly a more supporting role, helping with training so that others can provide the service.

Very few respondents feel that the BBC should not be involved at all.

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2.6 Q6. What effect, if any, would the proposal have on your interest in, and consumption of, local news?

Total number of responses: 131

Q6 Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

Increased consumption/interest 44 34% 20 38% 24 31% Give stronger local feeling 10 8% 7 13% 3 4% Important to me 7 5% 3 6% 4 5% TOTAL POSITIVE 61 47% 30 57% 31 40% Maintain my interest 19 15% 5 9% 14 18% Little impact 8 6% 3 6% 5 6% No effect 11 8% 2 4% 9 12% Other 20 15% 8 15% 12 15% Don't know 12 9% 5 9% 7 9% TOTAL 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

A third of respondents (34%) said that the proposal would increase their interest in, or consumption of, local news.

Just 14% of respondents said it would have little impact or no effect on their interest in or consumption of local news.

The proposal would appear to have a positive impact on nearly half of the respondents (47%). This result is higher in the Dorset area at 57%.

‘Other’ responses were largely where the respondent had not directly answered the question.

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2.7 Q7. In which ways, if any, would the proposal benefit; you and your family, your local community, your local area?

Total number of responses: 131

Q7 - Total Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

More aware of local news 36 27% 16 30% 20 26% Better inform the community as a whole 25 19% 14 26% 11 14% Promote stronger community spirit/involvement 22 17% 8 15% 14 18% Broadband is the way forward 5 4% 4 8% 1 1% General positive benefit 18 14% 6 11% 12 15% Increase profile of area 14 11% 10 19% 4 5% Hard to answer/assess at this stage 6 5% 2 4% 4 5% Broadband not appropriate for community 2 2% 1 2% 1 1% No benefit 20 15% 6 11% 14 18% Other 7 5% 4 8% 3 4%

A quarter of respondents (27%) felt that the proposal would make people more aware of local news.

A fifth of the overall sample (19%) felt that the proposal would better inform the community as a whole.

Only 15% of the sample felt that there would be no benefit from the proposal.

In terms of the family, it was felt that the main benefit would be increased awareness of local news. For the community the benefits are seen as the community being better informed and promoting stronger community spirit and involvement. It was felt that the local area would benefit from an increased profile.

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2.8 Q8. The service as outlined would be available only to those with a broadband internet connection. Is this the best way for news to reach you and your community?

Total number of responses: 131

Q8 Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

Yes 15 11% 2 4% 13 17% Yes – broadband is a good option 15 11% 5 9% 10 13% Yes – would be an improvement/good place to start 13 10% 4 8% 9 12% Yes – good value for money 8 6% 3 6% 5 6% Yes - TOTAL 51 38% 14 27% 37 48% No 32 24% 18 34% 14 18% Not everyone has access to broadband internet 31 24% 14 26% 17 22% No - TOTAL 63 48% 32 60% 31 40% Other 6 5% 3 6% 3 4% Don’t know 11 8% 4 8% 7 9% TOTAL 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

Whilst a considerable proportion of the sample agrees that broadband is currently the best method to disseminate local news, there is a very strong feeling that this will exclude certain sections of the community who do not have internet/broadband access. 48% disagree as not everyone has internet access; especially the elderly, the less well off and those in rural areas will be less likely to have a good broadband connection.

Those in the Dorset area are more likely to disagree that broadband is the best way for the service to reach the community (60%).

Also some respondents feel that the existing distribution channels should be utilised such as radio and TV and where they are not locally available already, should be provided.

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2.9 Q9. The service, if approved, will cost approximately £23 million per annum at maturity. To what extent do you think this service represents a good use of the licence fee, both generally and compared to other possible areas for investment?

Total number of responses: 131

Q9 Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

Good use/value/money well spent 48 37% 18 34% 30 38% Good use - all licence payers need the same access 13 10% 7 13% 6 8% Unable to assess at this stage 6 5% 4 8% 2 3% Poor use of money 25 19% 6 11% 19 24% Other 23 18% 10 19% 13 17% Don’t know 16 12% 8 15% 8 10% TOTAL 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

Nearly a half of all respondents believe the service represents good value for money/use of the licence fee (47%).

A fifth of respondents (19%) feel that this proposal would not be the best use of the licence fee money.

A further 17% said either “Don’t know” or they weren’t able to make a comment at this stage.

The remaining 18% represents other ad hoc comments or comments which did not directly answer the question.

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2.10 Q10. Are there any other issues regarding the public value assessment of local video proposals you would like the Trust to consider?

Total number of responses: 131

Q10 Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

Greater emphasis on local 16 12% 5 9% 11 14% Should be accessible for everyone 9 7% 6 11% 3 4% Sounds good 7 5% 2 4% 5 6% Better use of money 6 5% 1 2% 5 6% No 24 18% 11 21% 13 17% Other 24 18% 5 9% 19 24% Don’t know 45 34% 23 43% 22 28% TOTAL 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

47% of respondents provided additional comments. In summary, the greatest proportion of these related to the need for greater local emphasis and that the service should be accessible to everyone.

Many were ad hoc comments.

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3. MAIN REPORT

3.1 Question 1: How important is it that the BBC improves its depth and breadth of local news coverage?

3.1.1 TABULATION

Total number of responses: 131

Q1 Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

Essential 23 18% 14 27% 9 12% Extremely important 15 11% 8 15% 7 9% Very important 53 40% 23 43% 30 38% Important 29 22% 8 15% 21 27% Not important 11 8% 0 0% 11 14% TOTAL 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

3.1.2 POSITIVE COMMENTS

“It is very important that the BBC uses various media to improve the depth and breadth of sports coverage especially to ensure that minority sports have an outlet. Currently many of these do not receive a 'public interest’ service from the BBC”. – ID 4

“Very important. It has the capacity to be up to date and should be a vast improvement on the deteriorating service given by local newspapers (which now seem to print around the same time as the national papers)”. – ID 45

“Vital. There are many folk who cannot get out for a newspaper regularly because they lack transport, mobility, or are visually disabled. This is a vital link for them and increases the sense of community for all”. – ID 50

“Absolutely vital. Many people no longer buy a local newspaper and rely on TV and Radio to give them up to date information about their area. Local news helps people to feel part of the community and this lends a sense of pride and social responsibility”. – ID 56

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“Very important, there is a real gap in the market for thorough and detailed discussions of local issues, particularly issues that have a longer timescale than the immediacy of daily news; i.e. regional economic trends, regeneration, schools, travel issues, environment. Local news is too focussed on a being a scaled down version of national news so that it is just news of ‘not so bad crimes’, minor league sports results and funnies such as ‘world record attempts’ and skateboarding dogs”. – ID 63

“Very. Much of the country is lacking in real competition in local news, except in the major stories. The reaction of the Newspaper Society is to be expected as they seek to preserve local monopolies for their traditional print-based members. Increased competition at regional and local level has the potential to improve quality as it has done with national news websites”. – ID 111

“As the world’s most respected news service it is very important the BBC leads the way”. – ID 112

“Most important, it also needs to take account of marginalised groups and organisations that frequently act as the voice of disabled and older people”. – ID 128

Some comments related to specific areas, for example Dorset, for which there were several references.

“Very, as far as people here in West Dorset are concerned. The ‘local' news, weather etc we receive on BBC1 covers Devon & Cornwall - not exactly local to this area. Friends in Portsmouth get coverage relating to Dorset but we do not receive their local news station!” – ID6

“I think it is very important. I find the granularity of current local coverage annoying, living as I do in Swindon, Wiltshire. My aerial picks up BBC from Oxford and the South, with little or no coverage of Swindon or Wiltshire, whilst my Virgin Media cable connection provides BBC from Bristol, and guess what, they only think of Bristol with little coverage of Swindon and its environs. Local sport coverage on Teletext is another classic case. The 390 pages rarely cover Swindon Town”. – D118

“The Isle of Man has been underserved historically by the BBC and did not have even a dedicated Teletext page until recently. The Communications Commission would urge the BBC to continue to improve its service to the Island”. – ID25

“The BBC should improve its depth and breadth. They are our public broadcaster and you can rely on them for truth and accuracy. Local

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video will have more value as a licence payer. Midlands Today only touches this area slightly”. – ID 42

“It is extremely important to provide up to date news for local residents. I live in Cheshire, where we currently receive no coverage from the BBC”. – ID 55

“Very important - Wales has a strong sense of community, but also disenfranchised groups, such as youth. This proposed action can provide such groups with a voice, and increase awareness of local goals, trends, etc.” – ID 113

A number of comments related to the importance of the BBC supporting local news as ITV were reducing their commitment to local news.

“ITV is retreating from its commitment to local TV news so the BBC must now invest in this area of broadcasting”. – ID13

“Extremely - 1, as the BBC is the natural home for detailed local coverage, and 2, because ITV seems set on drastically reducing its TV coverage of regional affairs”. – ID21

3.1.3 POSITIVE BUT WITH RESERVATIONS

“It is crucial that the BBC doesn't seek to achieve such depth and breadth at the expense of organisations already delivering such benefit, thereby undermining those organisations within the communities they serve”. – ID3

“Existing BBC services don't really cover the bottom rung of the news ladder but seem to rely heavily on following up stories from local papers. It remains to be seen whether the BBC, by entering into this field, would make existing newspapers and websites less viable but provided this could be avoided the BBC should become involved at a grass-roots level”. – ID15

“It's important that someone (not necessarily the BBC) increases local video content. It will give local people a voice and a higher sense of belonging. There are numerous issues that get virtually no coverage as there just isn't room on the TV channels. Areas will also have the opportunity to promote and educate the specific highlights of their particular area”. – ID 20

“I think it is very important that the BBC improves its local news coverage - providing that it does so across the board. Currently, the BBC's definition of 'local' news in Scotland is stories relating to Scotland as a whole - not regions within the country. Local means

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towns/cities/metropolitan areas - not the country as a whole. I feel that it’s important to make this specification, as otherwise, the decision makers in London will fail to take note”. – ID 35

3.1.4 NEGATIVE COMMENTS

“It's not - there is already plenty of information available on the existing BBC web sites”. – ID 62

“Not essential at all - BBC cannot cover local news properly - regions are not local. Instead local community (largely volunteer-run) stations should receive some of the licence fee, and be allowed to serve their local areas in whatever way the local area requires. OfCom grants community radio licences to FM broadcast in a 6km radius - that's local. BBC local is county-wide at a minimum, and frequently moves to regional coverage only in evenings and weekends - because BBC staff want weekends and evenings off - just at the peak viewing and listening times!” – ID 108

“Not important at all. The BBC is a national news organisation. It has never placed a value on deep local coverage and the media map has not changed sufficiently for it to begin now”. – ID 116

3.1.5 CONCLUSION

Generally there is a strong feeling from over 90% of the respondents that it is important that the BBC improves its depth and breadth of local news coverage.

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3.2 Question 2: Are the proposals outlined here an effective way for the BBC to improve its coverage of local news and events?

3.2.1 TABULATION

Total number of responses: 131

Q2 Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

Yes 56 43% 23 43% 33 42% Maybe 17 13% 7 13% 10 13% It’s a start 9 7% 8 15% 1 1% No 22 17% 6 11% 16 21% Don't know 27 21% 9 17% 18 23% TOTAL 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

43% of respondents agreed that the proposals outlined were an effective way for the BBC to improve its coverage of local news and events. These results were similar across Dorset and other areas. However there were a number of comments raising concerns in relation to cost, geographic coverage and delivery of the service.

Concerns were also raised as to how this would affect existing BBC services and should the priority be elsewhere.

3.2.2 AGREE

“It sounds both innovative and accessible, with the possibility of using online resources in other ways too”. – ID 9

“Yes it is: other providers would never be able to provide this service across the country, in a safe non-commercial environment”. – ID 41

“Yes. The proposals outlined will develop the public service infrastructure without treading on commercial toes”. – ID 90

“I think it would go a long way towards improving 'shared experience' and in engaging more people in various debates”. – ID 95

“What has been outlined is vital for stimulating the local communities to participate. We need to feel proud about our local differences and not allow ourselves to be dominated by London and feel inferior in any way”. – ID 98

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3.2.3 AGREE, WITH RESERVATIONS

“Probably, although I don't think enough consideration has been given to forming partnerships - the attitude seems to still be ‘Aunty knows best’ ”. – ID 15

“It is an effective way of extending coverage, but it could be increased further by broadcasting the content on each area’s own TV Channel - this will increase availability, reach a larger audience and be more inclusive”. – ID 20

“To those who have good enough quality broadband the service is a great idea but what about those in rural areas where broadband coverage is poor or none existent? Mobile internet is mentioned but it is normally the case, where there is poor Broadband there is also poor mobile coverage!” – ID 89

“It will certainly improve accessibility but only if there is sufficient fresh content to maintain interest. Without an active web of contributors the service would not be sustainable”. – ID 31

“Yes these proposals are effective for local news, however, as well as the videos and news clips there also needs to be written data, local information and history. ITV regional websites are a good example of where video clips on their own have failed as not everyone can access the pages, particularly at work where people have limited access”. –ID 54

“They look interesting but I think that more could be made of user generated content. Why not use user generated video and stories but with professional editing? A youtube but better categorised, edited and with minimum quality standards”. – ID 62

“As long as it does not take away the importance of BBC Local radio yes”. – ID 111

“I am unsure. The BBC needs to improve Local coverage, but as the “ultra-local TV” proposals showed, there is massive opposition. I also feel that the BBC is trying to do EVERYTHING! It’s just not possible. I do feel that many areas of England should have their own local radio and local BBC website first, before this new service is launched”. – ID 123

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3.2.4 NEGATIVE COMMENTS

“The proposals cannot deliver the depth or breadth already provided by local newspaper publishers, which have invested huge sums over many years to develop the newsgathering skills base, infrastructure and community links”. – ID 3

“I don’t understand why what you want to do is necessary and would provide value for money - at least not for my needs. I read the BEP a couple of days a week, watch the local news on television perhaps once a week; the one after the 10 pm news most nights, listen to Radio Bristol in the mornings (though I have never quite understood why lighting up times are for motorists only!!). I don't much like the look of the local home page for the BBC, so I don't look at that (it is too cluttered). Perhaps for people who spend a lot of time on their computers and don’t get out much, it might be an effective way of giving them the local news”. – ID 105

“The BBC is a broadcaster, not a webcaster. It is financed by a TV licence, not an internet licence. Its focus should therefore be on air, not online”. – ID 115

Concerns over method of delivery

“No. Not everyone (myself included) is on Broadband. Also, I sit down to watch my television in the evening - not my computer”. – ID 6

“NO - BBC local MUST be available at least on DTT, otherwise a huge audience already left behind by the internet revolution will miss out on a service that matters to them. Using DTT to show off HD services thereby restricting the amount of space available for other services is likely to affect the same technologically challenged group who would no sooner buy an HD set than would know one end of the internet from the other. At the risk of sounding boring this group inevitably comprises the elderly, poor and disabled”. – ID 21

“It will be helpful to have a local news office and editorial leadership, but this is not helpful if there is no county-wide distribution medium apart from the internet - how is this to be provided on free-to-view TV and on radio?” – ID 8

Concerns over geographic breakdown of areas

“No, the video areas mentioned, to be of higher than 250,000 persons, are unfairly distributed. The combined population of Wales, N.I. and Scotland is about equal to the population of the London metropolitan area, yet theses receive 14 areas, with Greater London receiving one and each surrounding county one, completely disregarding the fact that

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county boundaries do not count for where people are interested in, e.g. a story in Milton Keynes or Buckingham would have absolutely no consequences for someone living in South Bucks or Aylesbury, where London Stories are of more significance, however under the proposals these would continue to be lumped together. Also figure 2.1 is incorrectly labelled. 30 and 31 are the wrong way around”. – ID 19

“No. The area of the south of Scotland is a convenient mush of what is left after other areas have been carved out of the country. In Berwick upon Tweed and the local area we have connections, socially and commercially with Newcastle and Northumberland and with Edinburgh and the Lothians. We have no connection at all with Carlisle, Dumfries and Galloway and areas to the west. Many of us never go there, don't know any people there, and have no desire to listen to news from that area. Why do all broadcasters seem to want to lump us into something that they find convenient to call the ‘south of Scotland’ ”? – ID 24

“In some geographical areas, yes. The proposals would seem to be very suitable for any community which happens to fit the BBC-defined areas. However, it looks as though Dorset is once again to be treated extremely badly as a mere 'offshoot' of Southampton. This is simply NOT good enough!” – ID 100

Concerns over cost

“No. At the moment, the BBC News Channel makes a loss - this has been admitted on a number of occasions by the BBC. Production of further video content will no doubt increase the required resources (both in terms of financial and physical resources), and will probably cost more than the estimated £23m”. – ID 35

“No. The BBC proposals are not local enough and the costs are very high compared with what can be achieved by community TV stations (e.g. Mon-tv.com) People do not respond to regions but to their home town news. The BBC 65 regions are missing the point completely”. – ID 45

3.2.5 CONCLUSION

While 43% of respondents agreed that the proposals outlined were an effective way for the BBC to improve its coverage of local news and events, there appear to be a number of issues which need resolving in relation to cost, geographic coverage and delivery of the service.

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BBC local video proposals aim to support the following two of six “public purposes”:-

Representing the UK’s nations regions and communities Portray and celebrate local communities, cater to their needs, stimulate debate on local issues and bring people together for a shared experience

Sustaining citizenship and civil society Provide independent journalism of a high quality, engage a wide audience in news and current affairs and encourage debate on these subjects

3.3 Question 3: To what extent do you believe the service, as outlined, will contribute to these public purposes?

3.3.1 TABULATION

Total number of responses: 131

Q3 Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

Just under half (44%) of respondents believe that the service as outlined will contribute to the two public purposes above. There was quite a mixed response in terms of comments given.

Respondents in the Dorset area are more likely to agree (53%).

Only 15% of the sample felt that the service would NOT contribute to the two public purposes and 18% were sceptical.

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3.3.2 AGREE

“I think that it will support both purposes well. BBC journalism is generally of a high quality. The interactive part is important for audience participation”. – ID 2

“BBC is best placed to use its experience and status to ensure good quality news - not sure other providers can do this”. – ID 47

“It will better represent Dorset. It will engage people via the internet, a growing means of gaining information and being involved”. – ID 9

“Yes. Certainly the proposals allow for local distinctiveness. Also, any service that is user-focussed ought to encourage citizenship and participation, especially when it also allows for the inclusion of UGC”. – ID 18

“Substantially. Debate on local issues mostly consists of letters to local press, usually published after 2-3 weeks delay. Local journalists double as councillors. The BBC's standards of journalism can't fail to raise the game”. – ID 34

“Very much so. Our local community here in Weymouth Dorset is rarely mentioned on BBC South West or BBC South. It does not cater to my needs or stimulate debate on local issues”. – ID 37

“I think that “Representing the UK's nations regions and communities” is something the BBC needs to improve, as the recent publication showed. The local video proposal will both offer more jobs (civil society) and show and inform others of what is happening in or around their area. Because of this, I think this also meets the “Education” public purpose”. – ID 60

3.3.3 AGREE, WITH RESERVATIONS

Again reservations and negative comments revolve around how many people will be excluded from the service due to the nature of delivery and the make up of geographic regions. There are also some concerns about the quality of the service.

“I am sure this proposal as it stands will further equip the technical with yet another service, and to that extent will fulfil its aims. Hundreds of thousands with an interest in LOCAL news, but whose technology extends to DTT or satellite TV only will miss out completely”. – ID 21

“I think that these developments will help represent the UK's nations, regions and communities to a greater degree. Quality could be an issue,

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especially if 3rd party suppliers are relied upon too heavily. There is also a danger of too much news - important news items could lose readership if there is too much content to sort through”. – ID 27

“It will do so long as it is not just a watered down version of national news. Local news has an opportunity to deliver news from a different perspective, take a step back and look at stories that are important but do not have the immediacy needed for national news. i.e. no endless reporting of crime incidents, celebrity visits etc. Local news should allow more depth not less”. – ID 62

“Partly - the absence of a separate radio service is a major deficiency which will exclude many individuals in many situations - on the road, away from home, at work: anyone without immediate access to a TV monitor or a computer with broadband!” – ID 81

“It should contribute but on a limited scale unless proper local radio and TV coverage can be provided”. – ID 8

3.3.4 DISAGREE

“Local newspapers cover stories at a truly local level. The BBC's proposals cannot hope to operate at such a level. The local newspaper business is the backbone of journalism in Scotland, serving as a highly effective training ground. Its trusted and inclusive position already serves to inform and engage local people in debate”. – ID 4

“I'm not convinced that internet-delivered local video content will bring people together in the way the BBC hopes. I think as the national television audience has become fragmented by numerous channels and other sources of news and entertainment, so will the local audience as well. It will simply make the choice of what to watch bigger and more difficult”. – ID 16

“As a benefactor (via the licence fee) and as a user of BBC services, this proposal seems to be an unnecessary addition to the portfolio of services the BBC currently provides. Also, there is some evidence that this would damage the commercial radio industry. The BBC poorly serves local areas with its BBC Local Radio stations - the preference being to the 40+ markets. If the BBC further damages the commercial sector, they run the risk of turning the 'iPod Generation' away from radio for good - BBC radio services included”. – ID 36

“Nations and regions the BBC currently achieves. Communities are the big issue here. It needs to be at the town level - the area covered by local newspaper: Hackney or Abergavenny not London or SE Wales. I don't think the BBC can / should get involved at the community level because: it will cost an enormous amount to do well, and there are local

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initiatives starting which this initiative will kill. It is very early days in the development of IPTV and these proposals will harm the developments such as mon-tv.com by splitting the audience and harming advertising revenue and stopping similar ventures from getting the crucial start-up funding. I do not see that these proposals touch on the second objective”. – ID 46

3.3.5 CONCLUSION

Just under half (44%) of respondents believe that the service as outlined will contribute to the two public purposes above. Respondents in the Dorset area are more likely to agree (53%).

Any reservations and negative comments revolve around how many people will be excluded from the service due to the nature of delivery and the make up of geographic regions. There are also some concerns about the quality of the service.

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3.4 Question 4: How distinctive (or different) is the proposal from other internet local news services, which offer video content?

3.4.1 TABULATION

Total number of responses: 131

Q4 Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

Nearly a third of respondents (32%) said that they either didn’t know how to answer this question or that they were unable to make comparisons with other services.

3.4.2 PROPOSAL IS DIFFERENT

More extensive

“The proposals seem to be more extensive than the competition e.g. ITV local. The interactive service seems greater. You seem to be proposing more news stories, than at present”. – ID 2

BBC better/has better reputation

“Should be much better than ITV local, which provides very poor coverage”. – ID 8

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“I would say that the proposal is adopting a more structured and professional approach than most other local video news services”. – ID 27

“The BBC is more focussed and the only other provider is the odd clip on ITV local but this is regional. The Evening Telegraph in Coventry doesn't provide video”. – ID 41

“The local paper does do a few stories in video, but they are of very low quality, and not normally about the stories that I am interested in”. – ID 51

“The BBC has a reputation for impartiality. With local news papers competing for coverage in print and with videos and local stories on the internet, you get bias and sensationalist reporting”. – ID 68

“How does the BBC content differ from that of ITV etc? The absence of commercialism and the principles behind the BBC ensure that coverage is full and fair. It can be measured against its principles and challenged if found wanting. None of this applies to normal commercial news media”. – ID 90

“I am not aware of any news sites in my area that offer quality coverage. The local newspaper has a poor selection of cheap to obtain but basically uninteresting video clips, most of which are not actually news or general public interest”. – ID 119

Locally focussed

“It is different in that it intends to use local people and local knowledge to put the programme together”. – ID 26

“It should be much more local to my county than other supposedly local services. Lincolnshire seems to find itself lumped in with Yorkshire for much local news”. – ID 44

“Other services are not so locally focused”. – ID 57

“Most other available services, other than ITV Local, do not cater to the local issues, news and needs of the local people”. – ID 89

Absence of advertising

“The absence of distractive advertising will make this service unique and enhance the BBC's reputation at local level for objective journalism”. – ID 36

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“Hopefully it wouldn't be full of adverts and would involve and engage more with the various local communities”. – ID 49

“Very - let’s face it the local papers and other local sites in the UK just have not got it right; too dominated by advertising and classifieds with no decent content and very out of date”. – ID 62

“Local newspapers and other services relate to advertising needs and fails to address marginalised groups to a great extent, the BBC could correct this in balance. It could also provide a more active interface into local decision making practices”. – ID 128

3.4.3 PROPOSAL IS NOT DIFFERENT

“Many newspaper publishers are looking at extending the services provided to their existing audiences through local video content. The BBC's plans target that same audience”. – ID 3

“Almost an exact clone of service range provided by local newspapers and other start-up companies. The BBC has simply watched the market, borrowed or stolen the best ideas and then offered it for free - putting any prospective commercial provider out of business before they've begun”. – ID 30

“I don’t think that this is massively different, but this is of a much more accessible format. I like the map that has already been created for part of Scotland, and for the area which was badly flooded last year. The videos may still cover the same things that newspapers do; the BBC production is of a much higher and informative quality”. – ID 60

“It is not, unless the public are able to take part in the production and uploading of news items regarding current issues and items that the public want to bring to a greater audience either to gain support for local issues and local news that commercial broadcasters fail to give airtime for”. – ID 116

3.4.4 OTHER COMMENTS

“The BBC is using the internet - in my view - to try to miss out on the cost of conventional media. The broad market needs news on Dorset to go to Dorset at the same time, filling their homes where several people in a family can see an item together, and discuss it as a family. It is being disingenuous on how the internet works, using research stats that do not take account of the power of the different forms of communication, (TV stronger than internet) and the % penetration that they can achieve, and particularly older people - all the more important given Dorset's demographic profile”. – ID 50

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Internet access not available to all

“Not everyone has access to the internet, particularly older people, and have no knowledge of how to use a computer. It should not be assumed that everyone has this access or can afford to have a computer. However, most people have at least a radio and probably a TV. We cannot get Freeview here, nor even Channel 5 without Sky, and Cable TV has not yet reached us!!” – ID 52

“Not everyone has access to the Internet. Of those that do, not everyone will choose to access video content relating to the community whereas most people who have TV will watch the news. Others have radio on all day - both groups will therefore be 'trickle fed' community news by default”. – ID 55

3.4.5 CONCLUSION

While a third of respondents were not able to answer the question, the proposal was seen as being different by approximately two thirds of respondents. The points of difference are mainly that the BBC is seen as having a better reputation and is therefore likely to provide a better more professional service; the proposal is more locally focussed and is less commercial.

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3.5 Question 5: What role should the BBC take in the development of local video news?

3.5.1 TABULATION

Total number of responses: 131

Q5 Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

Nearly half of all respondents (43%) felt that the BBC should take a leading or significant role in the development of local video news.

Only 8% said the BBC should not take any role in the development of local video news.

3.5.2 LEADING ROLE

“It should take a leading role, as the BBC website is one of the most popular on the internet. The BBC has the expertise and resources to call on”. – ID 2

“As the public service provider it should take a lead and give backing with finance and personnel”. – ID 9

“The BBC should be the cornerstone in developing local video news and other content: it is the beneficiary of the Licence Fee paid by Isle of

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Man households who do not at present receive dedicated TV or radio services from the BBC”. – ID 25

“I believe that the BBC has an obligation to licence fee payers to play a central role in the development of local video news. I quite like the idea of the BBC offering training and advice to encourage widespread user generated content and increase the quality of the UGC being produced”. – ID 27

“I think it's important that the BBC is the leader. They create a 'market' then if commercial or other organisations wish to develop in this way too this can only be a good thing for communities”. – ID 29

“It should lead it. The BBC has the technical capacity, resources and profile to establish far more quickly than any other organisation”. – ID 34

“It needs to lead and set the quality agenda as it does at a national level. Without the BBC the quality would be rubbish, as it is in the rest of the world”. – ID 62

“Leading role as in most things; I believe that the BBC should be the Number One broadcaster in the country. It is our broadcaster, not driven by ads/viewing/lowest common denominator/cheap. It should, and in my view does, cater for the lower and higher cultural needs equally. It also educates, which I think is very important. Actually crucial!” – ID 109

3.5.3 SUPPORTING ROLE

“The market is evolving apace, and the BBC can play a constructive role in working with the newspaper industry and others to plan for the future”. – ID 3

“I think the BBC should provide encouragement to local media and community groups by making technical facilities available under the supervision of BBC personnel. I don't think the BBC should try and do it all itself - that would have the effect of squeezing out the very local input the proposal is supposed to be about. We have already seen the BBC parachuting in its staff reporters rather than developing relationships with people on the ground. That was a mistake - it was resented by the communities it was meant to serve, and if repeated on a larger scale it would prevent any other entrants getting into the market”. – ID 15

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“The BBC needs to be seen as an independent facilitator giving a balanced opportunity to local factions”. – ID 36

“They could offer training course and skill transfer in conjunction with local providers. They can provide set-up grants for local community news providers in return for observer rights though non-exec Directors to guide new community based organisations. Ongoing training and support on broadcasting law, and journalism skills. Be the facilitator not the producer”. – ID 45

“The BBC should help train interested parties identify and coach local talent and tech support. You do already, at the N. Wales video centre. I see this as more a Vox popular, with minimal censorship from the BBC”. – ID 113

3.5.4 SHOULD NOT BE INVOLVED

“The BBC should concentrate on improving the quality of its all local news, from the poorly designed websites, to the dull television news before it starts to increase reporting diversity”. – ID 19

“None. Concentrate or national or international news”. – ID 30

“I would prefer that the BBC concentrate more on national and worldwide affairs rather than local issues”. – ID 76

3.5.5 CONCLUSION

There appears to be a strong feeling (from 44% of respondents) that the BBC should take a leading role in the development of local video news. This is because it has the resources, the expertise and professionalism to do so.

A further third (29%) believe the BBC should be involved in some form in the development of local video news – possibly a more supporting role, helping with training so that others can provide the service.

Very few respondents feel that the BBC should not be involved at all.

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3.6 Question 6: What effect, if any, would the proposal have on your interest in, and consumption of, local news?

3.6.1 TABULATION

Total number of responses: 131

Q6 Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

A third of respondents (34%) said that the proposal would increase their interest in, or consumption of, local news.

Just 14% of respondents said it would have little impact or no effect on their interest in or consumption of local news.

The proposal would appear to have a positive impact on nearly half of the respondents (47%). This result is higher in the Dorset area at 57%.

‘Other’ responses were largely where the respondent had not directly answered the question.

3.6.2 INCREASE INTEREST/CONSUMPTION

“It would increase my consumption and interest in local news. Almost every day I look up the local BBC news for the Dorset area. I like to be able to look up local news in other areas, in which I have connections sometimes as well”. – ID 2

“Would be very helpful and would certainly be watched in this household on the internet. We feel very badly provided for at present”. – ID 8

“It would increase my interest twofold; there just isn't enough local programming happening”. – ID 20

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“It would have a great effect as I would feel part of the programme and therefore take a greater interest”. – ID 26

“I genuinely believe that professionally produced local specific news would be very interesting to watch in the same way that local newspapers are sometimes specific to certain parishes. Much of the local BBC news is irrelevant to the area you live in”. – ID 27

“I would probably come to rely on it rather than local press”. – ID 31

“I think we would consume a lot more news, and no longer at a set time. It would be great to sit at the computer at work and see instantly all the stories I'm interested in right there on my desktop”. – ID 51

“I often visit the Midlands Today website (which covers where I live), but it doesn’t go into as much depth as the proposals, so because of that, I think this is a great idea”. – ID 60

“Probably would be much more interested. We rarely watch BBC Spotlight because the ITV West Country coverage is slightly better, but they both concentrate too much on Devon and Cornwall”. – ID 69

“It would have the effect of meeting a long-felt need to see and hear about local events rather than having to wait for the local papers, whose reporting often leaves much to be desired”. – ID 73

“It will certainly stimulate interest amongst my constituents, and enable me as a politician to keep better track of local news”. – ID 94

“For the younger generation it probably would, but for the wider and more senior population, TV delivery would be more effective”. – ID 98

“I am extremely interested in local news and it would enable me to get some! My local paper is often good (though occasionally susceptible to political bias) but has not the resources to cover stories in sufficient depth”. – ID 99

3.6.3 WOULD NOT INCREASE INTEREST/CONSUMPTION

“I doubt it would be local enough for me. Our ‘local’ area is defined as Leeds - but East Leeds has little in common with South Leeds for example. I like our weekly local paper because it is parochial (in a good way). It is difficult to believe the BBC with its megalithic size and impenetrable structure could really care less about what matters to us - speed humps, vandalism, thefts of lead from the church roofs and so on are the local issues at the moment. These rarely rate serious treatment

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on Look North - if they are reported at all - but they do matter to us viewers”. – ID 15

“We do not believe that any move by the BBC to further develop its local news services will alter the levels of interest that exist in this news form. It may well, however, have the effect of fragmenting and diluting existing audiences that currently visit other providers”. – ID 17

“None - I get regional news from the BBC but I will get local (community level news) from newspapers, their websites, and community IPTV stations. The BBC proposals are irrelevant to this”. – ID 45

“It will have little impact unless there are clear signposts to the type of news I'm interested in”. – ID 67

“Very little because I do not sit in front of a computer monitor or a TV screen to obtain news coverage. I prefer a portable service - i.e. radio”. – ID 81

3.6.4 CONCLUSION

Generally there seems to be a positive response to this question with nearly half the respondents saying that the proposal would increase their interest in/consumption of local news in some way.

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3.7 Question 7: In which ways, if any, would the proposal benefit; you and your family, your local community, your local area?

3.7.1 TABULATION

Total number of responses: 131

Q7 - Total Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

Better inform the community as a whole 25 19% 14 26% 11 14% More aware of local news 36 27% 16 30% 20 26% Promote stronger community spirit/involvement 22 17% 8 15% 14 18% Broadband is the way forward 5 4% 4 8% 1 1% General positive benefit 18 14% 6 11% 12 15% Increase profile of area 14 11% 10 19% 4 5% Hard to answer/assess at this stage 6 5% 2 4% 4 5% Broadband not appropriate for community 2 2% 1 2% 1 1% No benefit 20 15% 6 11% 14 18% Other 7 5% 4 8% 3 4%

Q7 - Family Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

More aware of local news 34 26% 16 30% 18 23% General positive benefit 6 5% 1 2% 5 6% No benefit 7 5% 2 4% 5 6% Other 2 2% 1 2% 1 1% Don’t know 1 1% 0 0% 1 1% Not specified 81 62% 33 62% 48 62% TOTAL 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

Q7 - Community Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

Better inform the community as a whole 25 19% 14 26% 11 14% Broadband not appropriate 2 2% 1 2% 1 1% Promote stronger community spirit/involvement 22 17% 8 15% 14 18% General positive benefit 6 5% 1 2% 5 6% No benefit 9 7% 2 4% 7 9% Other 3 2% 2 4% 1 1% Not specified 64 49% 25 47% 39 50% TOTAL 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

Q7 - Area Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

Increase profile 14 11% 10 19% 4 5% Made aware of local news 2 2% 0 0% 2 3% General positive benefit 6 5% 4 8% 2 3% No benefit 4 3% 2 4% 2 3% Other 2 2% 1 2% 1 1% Not specified 103 79% 36 68% 67 86% TOTAL 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

A quarter of respondents (27%) felt that the proposal would make people more aware of local news.

A fifth of the overall sample (19%) felt that the proposal would better inform the community as a whole.

Only 15% of the sample felt that there would be no benefit from the proposal.

3.7.2 BETTER INFORM COMMUNITY AS A WHOLE

“The local content helps inform the citizens, provides a way of maintaining a local community in a world where we are becoming more

and, more global and losing the local identities that make our country what it is today”. – ID 89

“If we are better informed, we are more interested, and more likely to participate”. – ID 109

“The advent of such a service, will allow air time and coverage of local events and issues in a more in depth and detailed way. Currently it is not possible to allow air time for every public event and or issue within the local or even national arena. Such service will allow the individual or associations and groups to bring to light current issues that the general public should be aware of and minority groups to have a valid outlet to aid gain support for such issues or causes that they feel are important at the local level. This service will help such groups voice there opinions in a constructive and valid way and will aid social cohesion”. – ID 116

“It would benefit me and my family as we would have a focal point to view the issues that concern us and it would benefit the local community because local people could discuss what is happening on a certain problem and the whole local area would benefit as it would improve the communication as a whole”. – ID 118

3.7.3 INCREASE AWARENESS OF LOCAL NEWS/ISSUES

“We would be more aware of local issues and local issues would be brought into a more easily accessible public area”. – ID 11

“It would make my family and community much more aware of what is happening in our locality and hopefully want to contribute”. – ID 26

“By having a better handle on local happenings I would feel that I was more aware of community issues. This has to be a ‘good thing’ ”. - ID 31

“Local issues are more likely to be covered than is possible by reliance on regional television which has to ensure a fairly wide interest in any subject it tackles. The proposed system should be able to target issues which affect a relatively small section of the total audience, especially as you will be able to select the items of interest to you rather than have to sit through items of no or little interest”. – ID 44

3.7.4 PROMOTE COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

“Would have most impact on shared community values and community spirit. Would also help local cultural development”. – ID 8

“I think it would create a stronger and more involved community. On a wider scale it may encourage people from outside the area to explore it more widely rather than passing through. Tourism is one area that could be broadened in Dorset and bring in revenue to little known but interesting places”. – ID 49

“By having up to date information of what is happening in the area and giving the opportunity to become more involved in community activities and fundraisers, instead of hearing about things after the event”. – ID 52

“The proposals would benefit myself and my family in the volunteering opportunities that we both take part in, and that we lead. A knock on effect from this would lead onto our community and area”. – ID 60

3.7.5 NO BENEFIT

“Not at all; Local newspapers, their websites and other media already deliver the benefits claimed for the BBC's extended service”. – ID 3

“Not at all - we need independent news. The community will benefit eventually from a more diverse service providers and no licence fee”. – ID 28

“The proposal would not benefit me or my family. The local community would suffer - since any alternative news source that might provide sponsorship or promotion would no longer have financial means to do so”. – ID 30

“It will damage all of these because this proposal will stop the development of genuinely local provision from community based IP TV organisations such as Mon-TV. It will do this by splitting the audience and taking away the only source of on-going funding - namely advertising. Consider the equivalent proposal for the BBC to start 65 free local newspapers (the medium is irrelevant) the effect would be to force local newspapers to close. The community IPTV sites are just starting - this would kill their development and kill a real community news service”. – ID 45

“Not much. People find it easier to turn on the radio than to manoeuvre a mouse or find a local TV channel. Give us a radio station instead”. – ID 81

3.7.6 CONCLUSION

The majority of the respondents felt that the proposal would provide benefit either for the family, the community, the area or all three.

3.8 Question 8: The service as outlined would be available only to those with a broadband internet connection. Is this the best way for news to reach you and your community?

3.8.1 TABULATION

Total number of responses: 131

Q8 Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

The sample appears to be split on this question with 38% agreeing that broadband is the best way to distribute local news to the community. Within this segment there are some respondents who recognise that this is not a perfect option as not everyone has access to broadband internet, but it is the best place to start.

However 48% disagree as again, not everyone has internet access, especially the elderly, the less well off and those in rural areas will be less likely to have a good broadband connection.

Those in the Dorset area are more likely to disagree that broadband is the best way for the service to reach the community (60%).

3.8.2 AGREE

“This offers the most immediate route under current technology infrastructure”. – ID 17

“It is a good way and possibly the most cost effective - but to reach a larger audience and be more inclusive, I would like to see a local TV

Channel, but perhaps that is something for the future. Broadband would be a very good platform to start with”. – ID 20

“More and more people are using the internet so therefore I would say it is the best way of getting local news to the community”. – ID 26

“It will not be long before the majority of people have broadband connections. There is no alternative available which promises such simplicity of delivery and the capability of being up to the moment”. – ID 44

“So many people have access to the internet at work, school and in their library that I do not think that it is a problem”. – ID 51

“I think so. I think that it is 80% of households that now have a broadband connection, and this figure is growing. Because of this, I think this is the best way. It is more environmentally friendly compared to newspapers which may make people switch”. – ID 60

3.8.3 DISAGREE

Some respondents disagree that broadband is the best way to disseminate local news as it is not accessible to everyone.

“As a regular user of broadband internet I would be satisfied, but I am well aware that neither computers nor broadband services are universally available. I would therefore regard an 'internet only' service as divisive”. – ID 12

“Definitely not. Although broadband reaches huge areas of the country, I maintain that a huge swathe of potential audience will not be those who can or want to use the internet”. – ID 21

“No, the BBC needs to provide a service that is accessible for all”. – ID 54

“I appreciate that the BBC is more interested in the generations to come and that the viewing habits of the general public have changed with much more choice available and the facility to watch whatever, whenever especially if internet access is available. However, once again the elderly without access to internet will be disadvantaged but still having to pay for a service to which they have no access”. – ID 56

“No you are only making it available to a small minority. What about the under privileged who cannot afford a computer and broadband connection, and all those in rural areas who are unable to receive broadband?” – ID 63

Some respondents mention other methods as being the best way to disseminate local news.

Local TV and/or radio

“As previously stated I would also like more local TV coverage and radio coverage for the North Dorset area and environs as this is a low wage area and many people do not have computers”. – ID 2

“NO! It is helpful but we need proper county-wide coverage from radio and TV”. – ID 8

“Ideally it should really be available through the red button on the TV also”. – ID 29

“No. Radio is the best way to reach the BBC local areas”. – ID 30

“I think it needs to be radio based as well as internet based as there are still areas of Dorset who have problems getting broadband, and also people who don't have the means or ability to have it”. – ID 49

“No - it should be available to all, whether or not you can afford or have the knowledge to operate a computer. LOCAL radio and TV coverage would be much better. But at least it would be, I trust, a start in the right direction. We have been promised local radio before but had this withdrawn at the last minute. There is a big gap between Southampton and Plymouth and it is way overdue to be filled”. – ID 52

“No - we want local radio and TV coverage”. – ID 55

Local press

“While broadband access has been stepped up hugely in recent years, local newspapers’ reach is inclusive of all segments of society”. – ID 3

“No - Newspapers and to a lesser degree, TV are still preferred”. – ID 61

Freeview or FreeSat

“No. Whilst it is very useful for those of us with broadband connections, not all the county has these services available to them, it being rural & under-served by network providers. The best way would be via FreeSat/FreeView and then internet broadband/mobile phone WAP services”. – ID 5

“Broadband penetration is high in the Isle of Man. Nevertheless, it would be of considerable advantage if the material was also broadcast,

perhaps by using the increased capacity available to the BBC via digital satellite and DTT”. – ID 25

Text service

“Fortunately I have a fast broadband connection. Neighbours a little further away achieve only a 0.5MB connection and some isolated premises have no broadband connection at all. A simple text only service would be helpful for those without broadband. Alternatively the BBC Trust could put pressure on the Government to ensure that everyone has a useful broadband connection”. – ID 10

3.8.4 CONCLUSION

Also some respondents feel that the existing distribution channels should be utilised such as radio and TV and where they are not locally available already, should be provided.

3.9.1 TABULATION

Total number of responses: 131

Q9 Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

Nearly a half of all respondents believe the service represents good value for money/use of the licence fee (47%).

A fifth of respondents (19%) feel that this proposal would not be the best use of the licence fee money.

A further 17% said either “Don’t know” or they weren’t able to make a comment at this stage.

The remaining 18% represents other ad hoc comments or comments which did not directly answer the question.

3.9.2 GOOD VALUE

“I am all in favour of organisations taking local things seriously, and generating news locally, rather than top down. I also see this as using modern technology and new developments within it. So I think this kind of development is vital”. - ID 9

“Since local video can be used for national or even international news stories local video should probably have a larger budget. After all every national or international story is local to someone”. – ID 10

“At the moment, we on the Isle of Man do not feel we are getting value for money. This is one way to redress the balance”. – ID 14

“I think it is the future and must therefore be invested in. It is a lot of money but if done well will change the way people receive their local news”. – ID27

“I consider this to be a very appropriate use of the licence fee as I believe it will help to reconnect people to the processes which influence their lives at a local level. This, in turn, may help to counter the growing sense of cynicism at regional and national level”. – ID 36

“The licence fee is currently excellent value. The objective of informing and educating is well met by local video and is a much better use of licence fees than competing in some of the light entertainment areas. In other words it is justifiable and worthwhile”. – ID 44

“This is a good investment for the future provision of news for the BBC, plus content will obviously be used for services like the news channel and other outlets. As long as this sharing happens, then it will be a good investment”. – ID 51

“I would prefer to see my share of the licence fee used in this way; there has been too much emphasis on trivial TV programmes, buying up sporting rights, and paying so-called celebrities vast salaries. The BBC is primarily a PUBLIC SERVICE broadcaster and that must remain its major priority”. – ID 103

“Value in monitory terms is not a valid consideration when taken into account the value of social cohesion. Many groups will have a chance to put forward items and agendas that until now have been pushed to the back burner in respect to available time slots currently being used for more important national issues. Any proposed service that allows a right to reply or bring to the table any valid issues and or news item that cannot find air time in the current market is a great thing. And would encourage the BBC to expand and continue to push the envelope and be a solid rock for the people to be able to express their views on important and current issues affecting the local population and to take a greater and active part in this new and exciting digital revolution”. – ID 116

3.9.3 POOR USE OF MONEY

“The BBC seeks to expend licence payer funds on duplicating existing services provided by local newspapers as well as undermining the economic viability of latter”. – ID 3

“It is not good use of the licence fee; the BBC should concentrate on good REGIONAL news and REGIONAL production of mainstream TV programmes”. – ID 16

“A better use of the licence fee would be to improve all existing areas of local news to a higher standard than to embark on an expensive new project. Also, the poorly drawn up boundaries mean that it effectively discriminates against those in areas where there may be some cross- boundary interest, and the population of London”. – ID 19

“Not a good investment if restricted to the internet. Although the proposal makes possible the RE-USE of video on other platforms, the service MUST reach everyone, and the conversion of the TV networks to DTT should provide the ideal platform to do this. Instead spectrum is sold to the highest bidders, and that which is left is scrapped over by competing HD services. Freesat would be another ideal platform for local TV as it would match the internet's ability for viewers to watch news for anywhere in the UK FROM anywhere in the UK”. – ID 21

“Looked at in the round probably not - it needs to be looked at in my view within a bigger review of BBC Regional Television and BBC Local Radio in England - I do worry quality and depth as well as breadth may be compromised”. – ID 23

“The money should be spent on providing proper local FM radio and TV news services in those areas inadequately served at present”. – ID 38

“A poor use of the licence fee; it serves an exclusive part of the community - those who are comfortable with and have access to computers at all times! It takes no account of the elderly, the infirm, the hospital patient, the worker, the single parent/carer, etc. Sound can follow you wherever you go; video cannot”. – ID 81

“I do not think that local video represents good use of the licence fee at all. This money would be better spent improving the quality of local radio”. – ID 120

3.9.4 CONCLUSION

Nearly half of all the respondents agreed that the proposed service represents good value for money or good use of the licence fee.

3.10 Question 10: Are there any other issues regarding the public value assessment of local video proposals you would like the Trust to consider?

3.10.1 TABULATION

Total number of responses: 131

Q10 Total Total Dorset Dorset Other Other % % %

Greater emphasis on “local” 16 12% 5 9% 11 14% Should be accessible for everyone 9 7% 6 11% 3 4% Sounds good 7 5% 2 4% 5 6% Better use of money 6 5% 1 2% 5 6% No 24 18% 11 21% 13 17% Other 24 18% 5 9% 19 24% Don’t know 45 34% 23 43% 22 28% TOTAL 131 100% 53 100% 78 100%

Just under half of all respondents replied to this question (47%).

There was a broad range of comments given with the most common stressing the need for greater local emphasis in relation to the service.

3.10.2 GREATER EMPHASIS ON LOCAL

“I am concerned about the generally London-centric attitude of the BBC and other media providers and the assumption that TV and radio signals strictly adhere to county boundaries and BBC Regions”. – ID 10

“I don't want the BBC doing everything it can possibly do. I want it more focused and less London based. A few token and marginalised local news feeds will do nothing at all to address the fact that the BBC is too London based”. – ID 16

“If boundaries were re-drawn to recognise that most people in and around large towns/cities commute regardless of county boundaries, so want information about where they work as well as where they live, it would be more acceptable”. – ID 19

“How does anyone decide how local is 'local'. Research in this area seems very weak. Dorset is (badly!) served through at least THREE different TV regions. Is there enough commonality between the districts of Dorset to make it a coherent area? Can the BBC afford to split it into

two areas, for we in West Dorset might fear being swamped by news from the Bournemouth/Poole conurbation?” – ID 100

“I do think that much more of the content should come from independent local providers. If most of the material came from freelances or independent local providers the impact on local news provisions would be much greater. As the proposal stands it works at what is really a sub-regional level but not at the very local level”. – ID 110

3.10.3 ACCESS FOR EVERYONE

“It is essential that the service, apart from its depth and quality, should be, as nearly as possible, universally accessible”. – ID 12

“Accessibility will be a key issue for some users. How will the BBC ensure that groups without Internet access will be served?” – ID 70

“If you can not provide this service to 100% of the UK population then it disadvantages a group of citizens. This should not happen. When service is poor then an alternative must be provided at the public expense. Otherwise you are not serving the public and could be creating a socially disadvantaged citizen”. – ID 89

3.10.4 GENERAL COMMENTS

“No, other than it ensures it does not duplicate effort with other BBC provision (instead leverage assistance from them). I would not like the local service to in some way report through to the Regional television provider, as it is inadequate at providing a service at present to my county. It should also be careful to strike a balance between serving the community; becoming politically active; losing its need to neutrally report political events”. – ID 5

“The main one is the negative impact the huge and powerful BBC will have on any smaller players in the market - which is everybody. I think the BBC should stay out of this area and let the market develop without interference. It's rather like Tesco not being satisfied with having a supermarket in every shopping centre - now it wants local outlets on every street corner as well. This is quite simply a bad thing. It destroys competition which is bad for the consumer doing his shopping and much worse for the country because it denies choice and plurality - which is something the BBC is supposed to be promoting. As Spike Milligan once famously asked the Times in a letter to the editor, ‘Sir, why is there only one Monopolies Commission?’ ” – ID 15

“The Isle of Man Communications Commission regrets the dilution of the BBC's original proposals for local services, which would have contributed towards making up for the Corporation's historic deficit in serving the Island's Licence Fee payers. The Commission had hoped that the West Midlands trial would have been a catalyst for the BBC to reverse its neglect of the Island. Nevertheless, the Commission welcomes the proposed developments as at least a small step in the right direction. It hopes that the Island will be in the first wave of local provision under these proposals, as had been indicated to the Island's Government in briefings given by senior BBC management over the past two years”. – ID 25

“With a recession threatening all of us, more communication to help people to cope with a difficult time ahead (which will probably last for years) is going to be a major element in people's well being. The proposals could be crucial in bringing about some amelioration in problems within communities”. – ID 42

“Not really. I would just like to stress that I believe this is a great proposal that will be as influential as the BBC iPlayer WHEN it gets approved”. – ID 60

“No doubt you could make great savings by using local groups to produce some of their own videos. But then what are professional broadcasters for? If the professionalism is taken away, we might as well all just tune into Youtube. The BBC supposedly guarantees the highest standards, yet I fear that this new concept will see standards drop. Gradually people will start to forget what high standards mean”. – ID 79

“It should not even be contemplated until every part of the Kingdom has the same level of local radio and television. Only when that has been achieved, can it be assessed whether the proposal is anything other than 'nice to have'”. – ID 104

“The main issue is the one of quality. If the sites fall back on church bazaar style stories then the service will rightly fail; it must relate real news to its area. It should also if possible have a face to deliver the service - the midlands trial with just on screen graphics was un- engaging and lacked the pull-in of a TV anchor such as those on the regional news bulletins. Perhaps by using those anchors the service would appear more rounded and friendly, rather than a cold data access point”. – ID 127

3.10.5 CONCLUSION

47% of respondents provided additional comments. In summary, the greatest proportion of these related to the need for greater local emphasis and that the service should be accessible to everyone.

Many were ad hoc comments.