TAC’s response to UK Government decision on Channel 4 privatisation

6 January 2023

Responding to the confirmation that the UK Government has decided against privatising Channel 4, Dyfrig Davies, TAC Chair said:

“TAC welcomes the fact that the UK Government has decided not to privatise Channel 4, as we have campaigned hard against this move.

We also welcome any increase in Channel 4’s commitments to the nations and regions and would support its spend on training being increased. It is important that the production sector in Wales sees the benefits of this expanded activity, alongside other areas of the UK.

However, there are concerns at the proposal that Channel 4’s publisher-broadcaster model is relaxed, as this would reduce the opportunities for the independent production sector to make programmes for the broadcaster.  This could create economic uncertainty for some companies in the sector, especially smaller companies.

We are pleased that Michelle Donelan, the DCMS Secretary of State has committed to consulting with the industry and TAC looks forward to playing a full part in that process.  We need to ensure that Channel 4 continues to be a significant driver for the independent production sector in Wales.”

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