Government to press ahead with Channel 4 privatisation, says broadcaster
manchestereveningnews.co.ukThe Government has decided to go ahead with plans to privatise Channel 4, the broadcaster has said. The channel is currently owned by the Government and receives its funding from advertising.
A spokesperson for Channel 4 said it was “disappointed” with the decision, but would “continue to engage” with the Government on the process to “ensure that Channel 4 continues to play its unique part in Britain’s creative ecology and national life”.
The statement said: “With over 60,000 submissions to the Government’s public consultation, it is disappointing that today’s announcement has been made without formally recognising the significant public interest concerns which have been raised. “Channel 4 has engaged in good faith with the Government throughout the consultation process, demonstrating how it can continue to commission much-loved programmes from the independent sector across the UK that represent and celebrate every aspect of British life as well as increase its contribution to society, while maintaining ownership by the public.
Recently, Channel 4 presented DCMS (the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport) a real alternative to privatisation that would safeguard its future financial stability, allowing it to do significantly more for the British public, the creative industries and the economy, particularly outside London. READ MORE: Under-fire Manchester Airport bosses told to 'get a grip or get out' “This is particularly important given that the organisation is only two years into a significant commitment to drive up its impact in the UK’s nations and regions.” The statement continued: “Channel 4 remains legally committed to its unique public service remit.
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