Justin Tomlinson MP has welcomed the conclusions of a new report which finds that commercial radio news provides a vital and valued service to listeners, reinforcing radio’s position as the most reliable and trusted medium in an era of proliferating fake news.
The report from Radiocentre, the industry body for commercial radio, was launched in the House of Commons. Breaking News: How listeners value commercial radio news explores the views of commercial radio listeners on different types of news, the role it plays in their lives, and overall levels of trust in media.
The report found that radio is the most trusted medium, with 77% of listeners saying they trust radio for national news. It also found commercial radio listeners value regular news updates throughout the day especially:
- in the morning (when 83% turn to radio)
- when travelling in car (when 85% turn to radio)
- during local emergencies (when 60% turn to radio).
The report showcases extraordinary examples of news teams from around the country responding to major events, providing audiences with up-to-the-minute news and information.
Justin Tomlinson MP said: “Commercial radio stations provide an invaluable public service to listeners. As well as music and entertainment, they provide trusted local news and information 365 days a year. It is important therefore that listeners can continue to access and enjoy commercial radio and the significant public value it delivers.”
Siobhan Kenny, CEO of Radiocentre said: “Commercial radio plays a special role in keeping listeners up-to-date throughout the day, providing updates during emergencies and remaining a source of trusted, accessible and impartial news. We want to guarantee that listeners continue to access this significant public value in future and look forward to the Government publishing its proposals on commercial radio deregulation.”
Matt Hancock MP, Minister of State for Digital said: “Commercial radio continues to play a crucial role in providing news and information for millions of people. Radiocentre’s new research provides a welcome reminder of the value of this coverage whether it’s providing headlines in the morning, updates when travelling in a car or breaking news throughout the day.”
Breaking News report – key facts
Radiocentre commissioned independent research company Other Lines of Enquiry to survey 1,200 commercial radio listeners who also listen to BBC radio. Quotas were applied to ensure a nationally representative sample of demographics.
Key findings from the research are included below.
Scale of radio news
Listeners really value the updates and regular bulletins provided by commercial stations.
- 79% agree that commercial radio provides helpful, concise updates on the news.
- 77% agree that commercial radio helps them stay informed of what’s happening.
- 57% use commercial radio as a prompt to go and find out more about particular stories.
Role of radio news
In our survey commercial radio listeners told us that they value regular news updates throughout the day, especially:
- in the morning (when 83% turn to radio)
- when travelling in car (when 85% turn to radio)
- during local emergencies (when 60% turn to radio)
Trust in radio news
- 77% said they see radio as a trusted source of national news, more than any other media.
- Only 15% of people trust social media for national news.
