Rees-Mogg defends BBC local programmes as Inside Out faces axe

The BBC spokesperson added: “Separately we are taking a thorough look at what we do in England. This is driven by the BBC’s significant financial challenges and efforts to learn lessons from the Covid-19 crisis.”

Rees-Mogg, who is also the Conservative MP for North East Somerset, said that David Garmston, who presents Sunday Politics West was “one of the most popular figures around and it is very important that local television is kept up.”

However, he added that the future of BBC programming was a matter for the Corporation alone when asked to grant a parliamentary debate on the issue by Liz Twist, the Labour MP for Blaydon in Tyneside.

Twist has written to Helen Thomas, the BBC’s director of English Regions, asking for the rationale behind the proposed cuts to regional programming.

She wrote: “Regional television output has performed strongly during the current pandemic and has provided balanced, professional and forensic reporting. 

“It is vitally important that communities in the north-east and across the UK are given a voice, and that our politicians can be held to account.

“At a time when our regions are feeling increasingly disconnected and left behind from Westminster politics, how does the BBC intend to continue to serve our local communities and provide scrutiny to our elected representatives?”

Jacob Young, the Tory MP for Redcar on Teesside, tweeted: “Regional Politics shows are so important to help understand what’s going on in our area. The politics of the north-east are very different to that of London. [Presenter Richard Moss] and team have always been professional, insightful & balanced in their programming- hoping to see a return soon.”

Simon Clarke, the Conservative MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, tweeted: “It’s extremely concerning that Politics North has no return date. It’s a good programme, produces insightful reports and constitutes an all-too-rare extended format for debate on key regional issues. Hope @BBCNews will ensure it comes back to our screens.”