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15th May 2009

Johnstone Slams SNP Broadcast Proposal

North East MSP Alex Johnstone has attacked a proposal by SNP Culture Minister Mike Russell to introduce an 'indigenous music quota' on Scottish broadcasters.

The plan, which would demand that Scottish stations set aside thirty percent of their airtime for music that was written or performed by a Scot, or recorded in Scotland, is similar to one introduced in Canada.

Commenting, Alex Johnstone said "It is little wonder that this idea has received such a lukewarm response from broadcasters who already devote a large amount of airtime to talented Scottish musicians."

"The fact that we have seen considerable success for Scottish rock and pop, traditional music, as well as for Scotland's orchestras in recent years suggests that this plan is, at best unnecessary, and at worst, protectionism gone mad."

Mr Johnstone continued "The irony is of course, that the licence fee ensures that BBC Scotland can already promote Scottish talent, which it does in a variety of ways, including traditional music programmes and broadcasting Celtic Connections."

"I appreciate that other countries have turned to quota's in order to ensure indigenous music is played, but we simply don't have that problem here, where Scotland punches well above its weight in terms of musical success"

"Given the myriad problems that we face in Scotland today, perhaps the SNP should get its priorities right instead of wasting time with mad cap ideas such as these."