Rival Broadcasters Could Block ITV Appointment

ITV’s main rivals are banding together in an effort to stop Stephen Carter, former head of Ofcom, becoming head of ITV once Charles Allen has left the broadcaster, according to reports in the trade press.

Channel 4, Five and BSkyB are said to be unhappy at the prospect of Carter’s appointment, arguing that it would represent a conflict of interest.

Newsline reported yesterday that Allen could announce his departure from ITV as early as next week (see Charles Allen Prepares To Step Down).

The broadcasters attempting to block the move are no doubt concerned that as head of Ofcom, Carter would have been privy to sensitive information relating to their businesses.

The other names in the frame for the top job at ITV are Sky’s Dawn Airey and Andy Duncan, chief executive of Channel Four.

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