Pilot for BBC's '˜Scottish Six' in the pipeline

The BBC has confirmed it is to begin trialling a new hour-long news programme that could replace both Reporting Scotland and the Six o'Clock News north of the border.

BBC Scotland headquarters at Pacific Quay in Glasgow - taken 2007. Image: BBC

The broadcaster has drawn up three options for a new format for a “Scottish Six” programme, but said no decision had yet been taken on which, if any, would be introduced.

The BBC said it aimed to deliver “the very best news” for Scottish audiences. The SNP has long argued for a distinctively Scottish news programme.

Critics of the plan fear the plan could have an impact on quality of coverage. The National of Union of Journalists has expressed disappointment at the lack of consultation with staff.

It is understood that BBC Scotland is to make a series of pilot episodes over the next three weeks before a final decision is taken.

The move was confirmed in a report on the Corporation’s website.

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