THE future of BBC radio and TV coverage of Rugby League was on the agenda when members of the Parliamentary Rugby League Group visited Media City at Salford.
Among members of the group were chairman Greg Mulholland and vice chairman David Mowat, MP for Warrington South.
The group have been campaigning for some time for the BBC to review its proposals for sports coverage.
They took the opportunity to tour Media City, including the RFL offices there.
Mr Mulholland said: “BBC coverage of Rugby League is crucial to the sport. The BBC do a great job on television and radio and it was very good to hear their ongoing commitment.
“We recognise the pressures the BBC is facing and we as sports fans want to ensure there is a sensible solution to this important issue rather than simply cutting coverage.”
Mr Mowat said: “When the group saw the impact of the BBC’s proposals, we fought to ensure they weren’t implemented.
“It is up to us, the RFL and other sports to offer effective, alternative ways of working to ensure the outstanding level of service we are used to isn’t diminished.”
Barbara Slater, director of BBC Sport, said: “The BBC’s recent renewal of our Challenge Cup contract, plus our commitment to re-examine any potential changes to BBC Local Radio’s output, highlight the importance we place on our coverage of Rugby League. The Parliamentary Group recognises the current financial challenges the BBC faces, which is welcome news, but we look forward to working together to reflect the sport properly across the BBC”.
Lord Hoyle of Warrington, former MP for Warrington North and former chairman of Warrington Wolves, said: “Rugby League is a fantastic game and needs to be seen by as many people as possible, including those in the media.
“With a base in Salford, I hope that those who take decisions on the game’s behalf see just how important our game is and take note. The RFL offices here will make that much easier to do.”
Picture: The Parliamentary RL group at the RFL offices.
