The current Royal Charter, which forms the constitutional basis for the BBC, is due to expire at the end of 2016, and the consultation is wanting to hear from the public in terms of what they want from the BBC.

Gavin Newlands, MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire North, said: “The BBC plays an important part in all our lives, and each and every one of us will have an opinion on what direction the corporation takes in the future.” “I think most people are in agreement that the BBC needs to change and adapt itself to meet the demands of modern times.” “The sort of change that occurs will be up for debate, but I would echo the views of the First Minister who argues that the BBC has not woken up to a post-devolution way of life.” “For the BBC to be able to effectively serve Scotland better then radical change is required. The current consultation gives us an opportunity to have a BBC which can better serve viewers in Scotland and ensure that the corporation is equipped to meet the demands of a post-devolution Scotland.” Whilst meeting with BBC bosses, Gavin also used the opportunity to speak about the coverage that is provided to Scottish football.

Gavin added: “Every Scottish football fan will agree that the coverage provided to our national game is woefully poor and far below the standard that the BBC provides for the English Premier League. “ “The figures speak for themselves. The host of Match of the Day receives more in his single annual salary than the entire budget that is allocated to BBC Scotland to cover Scottish football – this is an absurd situation and we deserve better.

“The quality of Scottish football could improve significantly if it was better served and covered by the BBC and I would urge them to listen to the views of Scottish football fans.”