Ah wonderful, it’s time again for a Tory spokesperson to say that Radio 1 should be sold off by the BBC to the highest bidder.

Brilliant.

This time it’s Ed Vaizey, shadow minister for broadcasting.

So, Mr Vaizey, let’s list your points justifying the sell off:

1) It’s a youth station, yet the median age is those listening in their thirties
2) It’s unfair that the BBC gets 5 national FM frequencies and the Commercial Industry only gets one

Firstly, to point 1: really? Where’s the evidence? And are you, as usual, just cherrypicking from Moyles’ listeners?

Secondly, point 2:

• So the only way to address the balance is to sell off R1? You’re telling me there’s no opportunity for a reshuffle of FM frequencies in order to fit one – or two – new national commercial FM stations in?
• FM is a dying medium, at least that’s the plan. In the next 10 years, DAB(/DAB+), which features a national Commercial multiplex, will have a much higher penetration – and I predict Internet Radio will also be commonplace in homes, cars and offices. So what’s the long term benefit of more national commercial FM licenses anyway?

To be fair, I think it’s awful that commercial radio only gets 1 FM frequency. Why? Because it’s lead to the quasi-nationalisation of our location commercial stations. But we’re about 20 years too late to do anything about it, Mr Vaisey.

Also, if R1’s targetting is off the mark as much as you say, surely this can be addressed by the BBC?

And finally, a clarification:

You want a popular, refreshing, varied service that by-and-large provides a public service through the exposure of brand new music from a myriad of genres that commercial broadcasters couldn’t do (as niche music shows don’t bring in the cash, alas), coupled with decent (by-and-large) presenters and – oh yes – no ads, with… Heart?

No offense Ed, but you’re a bloody idiot.

Pat

Feeling: A teeny bit hungover
Song in Head: Weebl & Bob – Take On Me