Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Channel 4 Privatisation

Thursday 20 October 2022 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

  • The Minister is reviewing the business case for privatising Channel 4.
  • The Minister stated they are an evidence-based politician and are thoroughly reviewing the case.
  • The Minister mentioned concerns about job losses and the impact on the creative industry.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Virendra Sharma Lab
Culture, Media & Sport
Context

No specific incident or context provided.

Question

I just want to clarify in my own mind that the right hon. Lady has no plans at present to carry on the previous policy of privatising Channel 4. Film4 films have collectively won 37 academy awards and 84 BAFTAs—a record that any Hollywood studio would be proud of. Its films include important examples of the British Asian experience, such as “Bhaji on the Beach”. Does the Minister recognise that the privatisation of Channel 4 would jeopardise the only major private investment stream in British film?

Answer from Michelle Donelan

As I said in answer to the hon. Gentleman's first question, I am thoroughly reviewing the business case, which is the right thing to do—I am an evidence-based politician. We have a fantastic, growing creative industry in this country, which relies on platforms such as Channel 4. That is, of course, part of the decision-making process.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific commitment or timeline not provided

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Q2 Stephanie Peacock Lab Barnsley South
Economy Culture, Media & Sport Business & Trade
Context

No specific incident or context provided.

Question

Privatising Channel 4 could result in over 1,000 jobs being lost from the supply chain in our nations and regions. Ministers cannot claim to support levelling up while letting this loss go ahead. When will they finally confirm that they know privatising Channel 4 is the wrong decision for our economy, regions and culture?

Answer from Michelle Donelan

As I have said, I am reviewing this business case and can assure all Members that I am doing it thoroughly. I am basing my decision on evidence. I am listening to representatives of the sector, all Members of the House and the public, and I will come back shortly with our decision.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific commitment or timeline not provided

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