GOVERNMENT CONSULTATION - LISTING OF THE ASHES SERIES ON 'FREE-TO-AIR' TV

The Government is currently consulting on recommendations put to it by an Advisory group chaired by David Davies on listed events. The review recommended that the home Ashes Test Series be added to the A list (only available to free-to-air) and that all other cricket is removed from the B list (highlights).

This advisory group did not take account of the financial impact this decision would have on cricket and the ECB’s ability to invest in all levels of the game. Nor did it take advice from sports rights experts on the overall negative impact it could have on how cricket is covered on TV.

Ben Bradshaw, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport has asked for views on the impact this decision would have on cricket, including the ability of the sport to invest in its development. It is important everyone in cricket concerned at these recommendations responds directly to the Secretary of State, and their local MP/Prospective Parliamentary candidate, by 5 March 2010.

As discussed at the recent AGM, HCB has written to Ben Bradshaw and all MPs in the county, explaining the detrimental impact this proposal will have on cricket in Hampshire.   However, it is important that clubs act on this information and write to Ben Bradshaw and to their local MP to explain what effect this will have at a local level.

The relevant documents are provided as attachments below, including a draft letter.  Please amend as appropriate, including information/case studies from your club:-

Key Information Sheet
Draft Letter to MP
Names and addresses of MPs and prospective parliamentary candidates