Exclusive Access Policy Roundtable on Channel 4 Ownership Consultation, with Rt Hon John Whittingdale OBE MP (Minister for Media and Data)

On: Tuesday 3 August 2021 from 2.00 – 3.00pm

Via: Video Conference

For: Members & Associate Members only

On 6 July 2021, the government launched a public consultation on the future ownership of Channel 4, as part of the government’s review of public service broadcasting. The consultation will consider both the ownership and remit of Channel 4.

The government consultation will be open until 11.45pm on 14 September 2021. The consultation can be found here.

The purpose of this consultation is to consider changes to the operating model of Channel 4, including its ownership and its remit and obligations, to ensure it has the best chance of future success. This takes into account the challenges to the future of linear TV broadcasting, ensuring Channel 4’s future sustainability as a public service broadcaster (PSB) and putting it in the best position to innovate and grow. The government believes that this will allow it to continue to contribute economically, socially and culturally by taking advantage of the opportunities available outside of public ownership.

The government’s preferred option is to facilitate a change of ownership of Channel 4, which it believes will give it greater access to new strategic and investment opportunities, allowing it to compete effectively in a more agile fashion and ensuring it has the best chance of a successful and sustainable future. The government believes this will help achieve its aims for the broader creative industries as set out in its Plan for Growth – to supercharge the sector by driving economic growth, unleashing investment, creating jobs and building on our international competitiveness.

The roundtable will allow Members to explore with the Minister the rationale for the proposals and to express views on potential outcomes.

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