Welsh Government sets out first steps toward a broadcasting authority for Wales
The Welsh Government has set out its first steps toward creating a Shadow Broadcasting and Communications Authority for Wales.
Any formal body is not expected to exist until 2028.
Heledd Fychan MS, Trefnydd, Chief Whip and Cabinet Minister for Culture and Sport, said a working group will first be set up to advise on how the authority should work.
Recruitment for the working group will launch in September, closing by the end of the year, with its first meeting expected in early 2027.
The working group is expected to report back with recommendations in early 2028, ahead of a formal statement confirming the authority’s future arrangements in spring 2028.
Heledd Fychan said £45,000 has been set aside from Creative Wales’s budget this year to support the group’s work.
Broadcasting is not currently devolved to Wales, meaning it remains regulated UK-wide by Ofcom rather than by the Welsh Government.
The plans follow recommendations from an Expert Panel on Broadcasting, and reflect concerns raised by organisations including the Institute of Welsh Affairs that broadcasting policy does not reflect how a devolved UK operates.
In her written statement, Heledd Fychan said:
“Recognising the work of the Expert Panel on Broadcasting and the input of experts in the development of its recommendations, I am adopting a phased approach to the establishment of the Shadow Broadcasting and Communications Authority for Wales.”
She also pointed to the UK Government’s Local Media Fund as part of the reasoning behind the plans.
“The UK Government Local Media Fund is the latest example of plans agreed for and about us, where we have no role in how those plans are shaped and implemented.”
Heledd Fychan said the announcement marked a first step toward a longer-term aim.
“These plans mark the first step in pressing for the devolution of powers over broadcasting, to strengthen Wales’ media and to give Wales its voice in broadcasting and communications matters.”
Photo by Sam McGhee on Unsplash
Check live fuel prices near you before you set off.
Spotted something? Got a story? Email news (@) deeside.com
NEW: Add Deeside.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
Latest News
