All of Norfolk's MPs have written to the BBC's director general urging him to think again over proposed cuts to Radio Norfolk.

BBC journalists, including in Norwich, this week staged a 48-hour strike in a dispute over the cuts.

Members of the National Union of Journalists are protesting at the BBC's plans to reduce local radio services across England - and they have been given support by the county's MPs.

The cross-party letter to director general Tim Davie has been signed by Norfolk MPs Richard Bacon, Duncan Baker, George Freeman Brandon Lewis, Clive Lewis, Jerome Mayhew, Chloe Smith, Liz Truss and James Wild.

Eastern Daily Press: BBC director general Tim DavieBBC director general Tim Davie (Image: Press Association)

READ MORE: Council leader calls for BBC Radio Norfolk cuts rethink

Suffolk MPs Peter Aldous and Therese Coffey also added their signatures, expressing their "deep concern" for the planned cuts to BBC Radio Norfolk.

 

The letter stated MPs were worried that the minimum of 86 hours of Norfolk-made content each week would be cut to 44 hours.

They said: "BBC Radio Norfolk has become one of our most valued local radio stations and is listened to by people in all corners of our county - its 43 years of success is a clear testament to that.

"But by slashing broadcasting hours to this extent, that will all be called into question.

"We therefore sincerely hope that you will reconsider these cuts to our local radio and prevent the abolition of what has played an integral role within the fabric of our local communities for years."

A BBC spokesperson said: "Our goal is to deliver a local service across TV, radio and online that offers more value to more people in more local communities.

"While the plans do impact on individual roles, we are maintaining our overall investment in local services and expect our overall level of editorial staffing across England to remain unchanged."