UK support for S4C welcomed
Welsh Conservatives have welcomed UK government support for S4C, following comments made by the Prime Minister in the House of Commons.
Speaking during PMQs – and responding to Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire MP Simon Hart – David Cameron reaffirmed his intention to ‘make sure we meet both the wording and the spirit of our manifesto promise to make sure this continues to be a very strong channel.’
The response comes just weeks after the Shadow Minister for Culture and Heritage highlighted the cultural and economic importance of S4C and the detrimental nature of funding cuts.
South Wales West Assembly Member Suzy Davies and the Leader of the Welsh Conservatives have since met with the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, and have continually made representations to the highest levels of the UK government.
Today’s comments also follow a Commons debate on S4C funding, led by Mr Hart.
Welsh Conservative Leader, Andrew RT Davies AM, said :
“I wholeheartedly welcome the Prime Minister’s comments and I am extremely pleased to see him placing the utmost importance on the future of S4C.
“We have already made it clear that we disagree with S4C funding cuts and – following our initial, constructive meeting with the Secretary of State for Culture – we will continue to work closely with the UK government on this issue.
“Welsh Conservatives have a proud record of delivering for Welsh language broadcasting and we will continue to fight for S4C.”
Welsh Conservative Shadow Minister for Culture and Heritage, Suzy Davies AM, said:
“We do not agree with these funding cuts and Welsh Conservatives will continue to stand up for S4C.
“The Prime Minister’s comments today clearly show the importance placed on the channel and we will continue to ensure that the interests of Welsh public sector broadcasting are at the heart of the UK government.”
