Alun Ffred Jones

“ Through its factual, historical and cultural programmes, S4C enriches Welsh society. It has, and will continue to have, an important part to play in delivering the vision set out in the Government’s strategy for the Welsh language.
S4C has also greatly contributed to the growth in the independent media sector and to Wales’s wider creative economy. The creative industries make a vital contribution to our economy and have been recognised as a key sector in our plans to lead Wales to economic recovery. ”

“ It was particularly encouraging to hear last week that 1.4 million people had watched S4C’s programmes from Wales’s summer events this year, which is an increase of 44 per cent on last year.
We all know that cuts are on their way. However, I am extremely concerned about the scale of the financial cuts being proposed by the UK Government, and their impact on services throughout Wales. The Welsh Assembly Government will continue to argue the principle that Welsh-language broadcasting should not be treated less favourably than the other aspects of public service broadcasting. ”

“ If S4C is to continue to meet the needs of Welsh viewers in an ever more competitive broadcasting landscape, it must continue to be culturally distinctive. It is essential, for example, that it should be able to commission ambitious programmes such as the new landmark drama series Pen Talar. It will be able to do so only if it is provided with a sustainable source of funding. S4C continues to be a service appreciated by its audience. ”