Commons Sense

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Broadcasting Update

28 April 2022

Proposing MP
Nadine Dorries Con
Mid Bedfordshire
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport
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At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement addresses major reforms to the broadcasting sector, including updating rules for public service broadcasters (PSBs) to thrive in the streaming age and proposing private ownership for Channel 4 while protecting its PSB remit.

Action Requested

I am publishing a White Paper that proposes significant reforms to ensure British broadcasters can compete effectively in the digital era. This includes ensuring PSBs receive prominence on all major platforms, implementing a new Video-on-Demand Code, and overhauling the public service remit. Additionally, I plan to sell Channel 4 to private ownership while protecting its PSB responsibilities and using some proceeds from this sale to support upskilling in the creative industries.

Key Facts

  • The broadcasting landscape has changed since 2003 when Netflix was a DVD rental business.
  • Streaming services have seen a 19 percent rise in subscribers, while 'linear' TV channels like BBC and ITV have lost more than 20 percent of total viewers.
  • Channel 4 faces unique challenges due to its ownership model compared to other PSBs like the BBC and Channel 5.
  • Amazon Prime spent £779 million on UK original productions in 2020, twice as much as Channel 4.
  • The sale of Channel 4 will benefit production studios across the country by supporting upskilling initiatives.
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