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Channel Four Television Corporation Annual Report and Financial Statements 2021

13 July 2022

Proposing MP
Mid Bedfordshire
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement discusses the Government's plans to privatize Channel Four Television Corporation (C4C) while maintaining its public service broadcasting remit.

Action Requested

The Government is moving ahead with plans to privatize C4C as part of a package of reforms, allowing it greater access to capital and the option to make and own content. This change aims to protect and support C4C's long-term sustainable future while preserving its commitment to regional spending and independent production.

Key Facts

  • The 2021 annual report shows strong results for C4C with growth in digital revenue.
  • The Government will remove the publisher-broadcaster restriction to enable C4C to diversify revenue streams.
  • A potential sale could accelerate C4C’s impact outside London.
  • In 2020, C4C spent 19.3% of its production spend in Northern England compared to ITV's 30.4%.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy