AN SNP MP has backed calls for the BBC to stop airing Downing Street’s coronavirus briefing in Scotland.
Scottish Greens co-leader Lorna Slater has written to BBC director general Tony Hall about the issue, saying the differing messages across the UK is making it “increasingly challenging” for the Scottish Government.
She warned that “substantially different” approaches to easing lockdown have not been communicated effectively by the UK Government.
Those concerns are shared by Na h-Eileanan an Iar MP Angus MacNeil.
Responding to Slater’s comments, first reported by The National, he tweeted: “Good call, for BBC to stop showing foreign briefings in Scotland – we don't see briefings from other neighbours, so why one to south, which is the worst example to show.”
Good call, for BBC to stop showing foreign briefings in Scotland - we don't see briefings from other neighbours, so why one to south, which is the worst example to show. pic.twitter.com/8uSSc6VXAX
— Angus B MacNeil MP (@AngusMacNeilSNP) June 2, 2020
READ MORE: Greens call for BBC to stop showing 'confusing' UK briefing to Scots
Slater also raised concerns about the BBC News app sending push notifications to people in Scotland for the UK briefing, but not the Scottish equivalent.
A BBC spokesperson commented: “We have received the letter and will respond in due course."
It came as a Cardiff University study revealed 50% of those questioned mistakenly believed the Westminster Government was in charge of lockdown across the UK.
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