A petition to stop the privatisation of Channel 4 has been signed by more than 100,000 people following the announcement.
Controversial plans , but the government has come to the decision to privatise the corporation, with the move
It’s said this is in order to secure long-term funding for Channel 4 as streaming giants – such as Prime and Netflix – continue to grow in popularity.
A petition , simply titled: ‘Stop the privatisation of Channel 4,’ has quickly rocketed in popularity, with more than 100,000 people (at the time of writing) having signed it.
It argues: ‘Channel 4 is responsible for some of the very best programming on UK TV. Channel 4 News is one of the most trusted news programmes at a time when disinformation is rife.’
The petition goes on to say: ‘To privatise Channel 4 would seriously undermine programming aimed at all the communities, across generations, that make up this country.
‘The government has no right to move ahead with a plan that is not in the interest of the viewing public.’
In a statement, a DCMS spokesperson said: ‘Following an extensive consultation on the future ownership of Channel 4, the Culture Secretary has come to a decision and is now consulting with Cabinet colleagues.
‘We want Channel 4 to flourish and thrive in the face of a rapidly-changing media landscape. It holds a cherished place in our broadcasting landscape and we want that to remain the case.
‘We set out our preferred option for a change of ownership to give the corporation new freedoms to innovate and grow while continuing to make an important economic, social and cultural contribution to the UK. We will announce further details shortly.’
However, the plans from the broadcaster itself, as well as stars who’ve been involved with its programming.
A Channel 4 statement called the plans ‘disappointing’ as it noted: ‘With over 60,000 submissions to the Government’s public consultation, it is disappointing that today’s announcement has been made without formally recognising the significant public interest concerns which have been raised.
‘Channel 4 has engaged in good faith with the Government throughout the consultation process, demonstrating how it can continue to commission much-loved programmes from the independent sector across the UK that represent and celebrate every aspect of British life as well as increase its contribution to society, while maintaining ownership by the public.
‘Recently, Channel 4 presented DCMS with a real alternative to privatisation that would safeguard its future financial stability, allowing it to do significantly more for the British public, the creative industries and the economy, particularly outside London. This is particularly important given that the organisation is only 2 years into a significant commitment to drive up its impact in the UK’s Nations and Regions.
‘Channel 4 remains legally committed to its unique public-service remit. The focus for the organisation will be on how we can ensure we deliver the remit to both our viewers and the British creative economy across the whole of the UK.
‘The proposal to privatise Channel 4 will require a lengthy legislative process and political debate. We will of course continue to engage with DCMS, Government and Parliament, and do everything we can to ensure that Channel 4 continues to play its unique part in Britain’s creative ecology and national life.’
Line Of Duty writer Jed Mercurio shared: ‘The sale of C4 will inflict huge damage on homegrown creative companies, all to silence a critical news outlet, and, as if it even needs mentioning, make a few quid for their mates while they’re about it.’
Raised By Wolves creator and journalist Caitlin Moran commented: ‘I used to think politics was more nuanced, but these days, when the government announce they’re selling Channel 4, you just think, “Which one of their rich mates has said they want to buy it?” Is this their only idea? Selling all our stuff?’
Location, Location, Location host Allsopp responded to the news with a series of tweets slamming the proposal, culminating in her writing: ‘Never has independent news & current affairs been more important, so what does our Government do? It decides to sell a public service broadcaster, bunch of t**ts.’
No price tag has been set by the Government yet, but reports suggest the channel could be sold for as much as £1billion in a process that could take several months, with the proposals needing to pass through both the House of Commons and Lords.
Metro.co.uk has contacted Channel 4 for further comment.
