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Calls have been growing to take half a million out of Gary Lineker ’s hefty pay packet to fund local radio.
The BBC this week announced the stations are set to feature less programmes relating to their area and that 48 jobs would be be cut as part of the overhaul.
Conservative former minister Sir Mike Penning hit out at the plan in the House of Commons and suggested it could save cash by paying the BBC’s top earner less.
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The Match of the Day host took home a mega £1.35million salary last year.
Sir Mike said: “If it’s about money, then take half a million pounds out Gary Lineker’s salary or one of the others who earn extortionate salaries.”
He said “the public trust local radio”, like they “don’t trust” the broadcaster’s other flagship shows – citing Newsnight and the Today programme.
Culture minister Julia Lopez also hit out at the broadcaster, saying the Government is “disappointed” with the plans to make “extensive” cuts.
She said: “I know that a lot of people across the chamber feel very strongly about some of the very large salaries within the BBC and that goes to the heart of the public trust in the BBC.
“For those older residents living in rural areas, it can be a particular lifeline.
“The BBC must make sure it continues to provide distinctive and genuinely local radio services with content that reflects and represents people and communities from all corners of the UK.”
The Beeb said it is making the cuts as part of a new strategy, which focuses on online content and said it will help it move towards becoming a “modern, digital-led” broadcaster.
All 39 local radio stations will continue with their dedicated local programming from 6am to 2pm on weekdays but after 2pm the broadcaster will air 18 afternoon programmes across England shared between stations.
Ten local programmes will be broadcast between 6-10pm on weekdays and across the day on Saturday and on Sunday mornings.
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