Anonymous

We are talking about important public information which affects peoples' lives. In a democracy, people have a right to know about government and local authority matters that impact them.

Local newspapers command a huge audience. They are read on a per issue basis by 85% of the population while broadband penetration lags far behind at 60% across Scotland and less than 40% in key areas such as Glasgow. Research has also repeatedly shown that newspapers are the nation's most trusted medium. They are therefore a much more appropriate place to carry Public Information Notice rather than a state controlled portal with poor visability. This is confirmed by reader research. A survey in June revelaed 90% of readers expected to see public notices in a newspaper, only 0.8% behind birth, death and marriage notices.

The Scottish Government's proposals put it at odds with the rest of the UK as Westminster has recently rejected a similar approach as being undemocratic. This is a view held by the vast majority of MSPs who, as mentioned above, voted 76-48 two weeks ago in support of ditching the Governement's plan.

By the way, indigenous press penetration 85%. Also, Britain's most trusted medium.

Dear Anonymous

Latest Ofcom's figures - UK 68% penetration; Scotland 60%. Also, Glasgow 39%, Inverclyde below 40% (from memory 37%).