Why Were Minor Parties Concerned About The Televising Of Parliament?

The argument from the minor parties, namely the Liberal Democrats, regarding the introduction of cameras into the House of Commons in 1989, was that there would be a misrepresentation of levels of support for the different parties. Despite supporting the move on democratic principles, they feared that the "gladiatorial combat between the two parties" would cause broadcasters and journalists to edit out Lib Dem contributions completely. This, it is argued, has turned out to be very much the case.

Following ministerial statements in the Commons, the 24 hour-news channels or specialist political programmes covering the event live usually cut from the debate in question after the official opposition spokesperson has responded. Political commentators have noted that the media are not as concerned with what the minor parties are saying on a particular matter. Journalists are more interested in the battle of words, for instance, between the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in Prime Ministers' Questions.