OPINION – BBC's disparity in political coverage between Westminster and Cardiff

The announcement that the BBC decided to move forward with plans to abolish the free TV licence for over 75s in July, left many including myself in the constituency incredibly disappointed.

Last week I wrote to new BBC Director-General Tim Davie.

The decision to see this policy go ahead effects 9,000 constituents. While I accept that the corporation will continue to fund free licences for those in receipt of Pension credit there are alternatives which could have been explored such as maintaining a free licence for those over 75 who live on their own.

Television is a life line for many and while the country is spending more time than ever before at home, I would urge the BBC to consider whether it is playing its part in the national interest by implementing this decision.

Representing a largely agricultural constituency, I have been long concerned at the portrayal of farming.

This was brought into sharp focus earlier this year when the BBC screened ‘Meat – A Threat to Our Planet?’

The documentary focused on the livestock sector in the United States.

The farmers I represent in Brecon and Radnorshire farm to world-class environmental standards; they are worlds away from ranchers in other parts of the world and take their role in providing healthy and nutritious food for the nation incredibly seriously.

Following the programme I was contacted by dozens of farmers who feel that the BBC ignores what they do and choose to demonise their industry to capitalise on modern trends.

Finally, I asked whether the BBC believes it meets out equal treatment to the Government in Westminster as it does to the Welsh Government in Cardiff?

This summer provided another example of the disparity between the two different approaches.

I believe the BBC is part of our national identity and look forward in hearing from Mr Davie.