UK government confirms Channel 4 to remain publicly owned

The UK government has confirmed that it will not proceed with the privatisation of Channel 4, instead opting for a package of reforms aimed at preserving the broadcaster’s long-term financial sustainability.

The sale of Channel 4, spearheaded by former prime minister Boris Johnson and his culture secretary Nadine Dorries, faced opposition from some within the sector and the ruling Conservative party.

Michelle Donelan, who took over as culture secretary in September, said on Thursday that she had come to the decision after “reviewing the business case” for the sale.

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport said that as part of the new package of measures, the government would relax restrictions to enable Channel 4 to make and own more of its content. Meanwhile, the broadcaster has committed to increasing jobs outside of the capital.

“This announcement will bring huge opportunities across the UK with Channel 4’s commitment to double their skills investment to £10mn and double the number of jobs outside of London,” Donelan said.

“The package will also safeguard the future of our world leading independent production sector. We will work closely with them to add new protections such as increasing the amount of content C4C must commission from independent producers.”