"BBC music is one of the main reasons I am actually here, and where I am in my career," he told BBC News at the Westminster event. "The thought of not having it and not having some of the programs is worrying to me. I'm worried for the new artists and how they'll be heard and if they'll be heard."

Smith was joined by Sandy Shaw, Jake Bugg, and Pink Floyd's Nick Mason, who told BBC News, "There is no other radio opportunity for less-known bands."