BBC World Service’s output vital for democracy

Welcoming the announcement on funding for the World Service, Co-Chair of the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary International Affairs Committee, Martin Horwood said:

“The BBC World Service is a fantastic example of Britain’s soft power. We don’t lecture people on democracy and free speech – we demonstrate it through the World Service’s output.

“With world events taking place at a rapid pace and independent information being a vital tool against those wishing to stop progress, it would have been indefensible for the Arabic Service and Hindi Shortwave services to be cut back.”

Commenting further, Liberal Democrat peer, Lord (Navnit) Dholakia, said:

“The BBC World Service is the jewel in the crown of British broadcasting and shows us the impact independent broadcast journalism can have on a daily basis.

“The World Service’s programmes in Hindi are a much valued source of news for millions. The continued funding for the Hindi services on the shortwave is a very welcome announcement by the Foreign Secretary”

BBC World Service is to recieve an extra £2.2 million per year over the next three years, calming fears it was to have its funding cut.