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In a reply, dated 2 November, Brittin responded that “the BBC takes its obligations to Wales extremely seriously”.
“Wales is central to the BBC’s mission as a public service broadcaster and to our role as a UK-wide institution,” he said.
“As our response to the government’s Charter Review green paper demonstrates, we believe the BBC must continue to serve every nation of the United Kingdom strongly, reflecting their democratic, cultural and linguistic life while ensuring that audiences see themselves represented across our services.
“Wales is fundamental to that vision.
“BBC Cymru Wales is one of Wales’ most important national institutions.”
The first minister’s letter also raises worries about funding for S4C and on radio services said: “In the case of BBC Radio Cymru, this is the only radio news service through the medium of Welsh.
“The loss of services on BBC Radio Cymru doesn’t just limit plurality; it removes services altogether.
“In Wales, the BBC has a unique role and unique responsibility in supporting the Welsh language. The first round of proposed savings identified raised a number of serious concerns.
“For BBC Radio Cymru, the provision of news, entertainment and culture will be significantly diminished by the current proposals.
“The same is true of BBC Radio Wales, with, as we understand it, an equally significant reduction in the number of feature programmes, which will compromise the breadth of the programme offer.”
Brittin replied: “Welsh-language services are not peripheral to the BBC’s public purposes; they are a core part of how we serve audiences in Wales.
“We fully recognise the unique role the BBC plays in supporting and promoting the Welsh language and we remain committed to ensuring that Welsh-speaking audiences continue to be well served through our services and partnerships.”
Brittin is due to meet ap Iorwerth and Fychan on 18 November.
Rhun ap Iorwerth is a former BBC journalist and was first elected as a Senedd Member in 2013.
Rhuanedd Richards is a former chief executive of Plaid Cymru.
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