The Scottish Government has opposed the decision to move the BBC Scotland channel online, with Culture Secretary Mairi McAllan calling the move "wholly unacceptable."
The BBC announced on Tuesday that the channel would move solely to BBC iPlayer from spring of next year as part of a series of changes that also see BBC Three and Radio 4 Extra move online. As a result, 10 jobs will be lost in Scotland.
Scottish Government's Strong Opposition
In a statement, Ms McAllan said she would take her complaints to media regulator Ofcom.
"The proposal to close the BBC Scotland channel is wholly unacceptable and the Scottish Government opposes it in the strongest possible terms," she said.
"This represents a significant blow to our media landscape and is the latest example of a long-standing pattern of BBC underinvestment in Scotland, raising serious questions about the broadcaster's commitment to Scottish audiences and the creative sector, and its public service obligations to serve all parts of the UK fairly and equitably."
She added: "I have set this out directly with the BBC Scotland director and will engage with Ofcom to make clear the significant concerns this proposal raises."
Political Reactions
Scottish Green culture spokesperson Q Manivannan said the announcement was a "huge blow for staff" and pushed for efforts to ensure Scotland did not miss out.
"It is a backwards step that risks leaving viewers behind, and reflects a wider cultural crisis in Scotland," the MSP said.
"Moving away from a traditional TV channel will only make BBC Scotland less accessible, particularly for older people and those who face barriers to getting online.
"Not everyone has reliable internet access, the right devices or the confidence to navigate digital services. Public broadcasting should be available to everyone, not just those who are digitally connected."
They said: "The Scottish Greens are ready to support the Scottish Government in advocating for the protection of Scotland's broadcasting sector, particularly in its conversations with Westminster about the BBC's Charter renewal next year."
Shadow Scottish secretary Harriet Cross said: "The channel often explored subject matters from rural parts of Scotland that otherwise wouldn't have been shown on the main channel.
"However, with fewer Scots watching linear TV, the BBC must provide best value for money that reflects the interests of viewers.
"The onus is now on SNP ministers to actively work with the BBC to ensure Scottish TV production is protected from any further cuts."
BBC's Position
In a note to staff, BBC director-general Matt Brittin said the broadcaster has to "make every pound work harder," adding: "Much of the great content they currently carry will still be found where audiences already enjoy them on iPlayer and Sounds.
"While this follows media speculation, I recognise the confirmation of this news will be hard for audiences and colleagues."
SNP MSP Alex Kerr said the "appalling" decision showed the BBC's "disdain" for Scotland, adding: "Scotland has so much to showcase: our world-class arts and music, stars at the height of their sports, the most exciting football league in Europe – these things aren't important to bosses in Westminster, but they matter to us."
