BBC local radio cuts could jeopardise emergency broadcasts, says LGA
Plans by the BBC to cut medium- wave output in parts of the country where alternative FM services are available could jeopardise emergency broadcasts during events such as heavy snow and major traffic accidents, the Local Government Association (LGA) has said.
The body has said that FM radio can broadcast "crackling static" rather than clear sound, and that the BBC was "underestimating the serious implications and risks to people's safety" with the planned cuts. It called on the BBC to remember its public sector duty.
A BBC spokesperson told the Guardian: "BBC Local Radio will continue to be local in times of crisis or emergency, that will not change.
"We will consider carefully submissions from those areas that can show they would be disadvantaged by the withdrawal of medium wave.
"The BBC Trust is consulting on these proposals and no decision has as yet been made."