The BBC will submit a formal request for permission to sharply cut the number of hours of news and current affairs out of the north west amid criticism from a regulator it breached its operating licence in connection with Radio Foyle.

Ofcom says the BBC broadcasted 300 fewer hours of news and current affairs on Radio Foyle than required.

The increase in the TV Licence fee by £5 or 2.9 per cent from £169.50 to £174.50 next April follows a 6.6 per cent increase from this April, which came after it had been frozen for two years.