MP’s Urge Leeds Radio Re-Think

The Yorkshire Evening Post have reported that a number of Members of Parliament have called for Ken Bates to reverse his decision to monopolise Leeds match radio coverage.

The YEP suggested on Friday that no fewer than 5 MP’s (now 6) were involved in the House of Commons Early Day Motion to call on Leeds United chairman to reverse his decision to restrict Leeds United match day coverage to Radio Leeds, the company he formed 2 years ago as reported previously on Vital Leeds.Click Here To Read ‘Uncle Ken Opts for Radio Monopoly.’

The entry in the EDM database states:

“That this House recognises that local radio stations have a key role to play in the communities they serve; regrets that Ken Bates, Chairman of Leeds United, has seen fit to end the contract for Radio Leeds to broadcast live coverage of Leeds United matches; recognises that for nearly 40 years through bad and good times Radio Leeds has provided an excellent service to the people of Leeds and the surrounding area who wish to follow the fortunes of their favourite team on match days; notes that a sizeable number of listeners are pensioners who are unable to attend games and will now have to buy a digital radio to listen to Yorkshire Radio, the creation of Mr Bates, which has now been given the contract to broadcast live matches; recognises that those who listen to car radio will also be disadvantaged by this move; and calls on Mr Bates to reconsider his decision and recognise that it is in the long-term interests of Leeds United to have the greatest possible local radio audiences to stimulate interest in and support for the club.”

As of lunch-time Friday, the motion, tabled by Labour MP Colin Burgon (Elmet) and signed by fellow party members John Battle (Leeds West), George Mudie (Leeds East), John Grogan (Selby) and Lynne Jones (Birmingham Selly Oak.) The Liberal Democrat support has come in the form of MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, Phil Willis.

So that’s 6 MP’s and thousands of Leeds fans Mr Bates. Reverse your decision and allow ordinary, decent fans to enjoy coverage of the team that they have stuck by through thick and thin.

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