Responding to reports that Culture Secretary Michelle Donelan has recommended to Rishi Sunak that the Channel 4 privatisation does not go ahead, ISBA has issued the following statement.
“If confirmed, advertisers will be delighted by the Government's decision not to dispose of Channel 4. Advertisers overwhelmingly opposed the sale because they value Channel 4's diverse audience and because of competition concerns which could arise from broadcaster consolidation.
“The Culture Secretary’s review of the business case has clearly concluded that no convincing arguments for privatisation exist. ISBA has long maintained that the sustainability of Channel 4 could be ensured by changes to its business model, rather than ownership. The decision to step away from a sale brings certainty for those planning advertising campaigns, supports the UK’s creative industries, and backs future investment in all regions and nations.
“Changes to viewership do mean that the TV advertising model must evolve – and that audience reach must be measured effectively. Evolving the model must now be the focus, with advertisers, broadcasters, and government working together to that end.”
Phil Smith, Director General ISBA