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John Finnie, Green MSP for the Highlands and Islands, has written to the Chief Executive of STV seeking assurances over the future of broadcasting in the north, following a major cuts announcement.

STV currently holds two distinct ITV regional licenses, for both Northern Scotland and Central Scotland.

Reports yesterday suggested that STV’s reorganisation would include the closure of STV2 and the amalgamation of news output in the central belt.

Commenting today Mr Finnie said: “It is extremely regrettable that STV have decided to make such swingeing cuts, resulting in the loss of a significant number of jobs. It looks like this will result in significantly more centralised output from the broadcaster.

“I have written to STV’s Chief Executive today to remind him of his obligation to serve the distinct perspectives of communities in the north. STV holds separate ITV regional licenses for the north and the central belt and it is vital that it continues to preserve distinct programming for each area. Were it not to commit to this it would call into question its suitability to continue holding the license for Northern Scotland.”