Channel 4 To Launch Two-Stage Remit Review
Channel 4 is launching a strategic review of its public service programming remit, following last week’s Ofcom report on the broadcaster’s finances.
The announcement, made at the Westminster Media Forum, comes after Ofcom’s statement last week said that the channel must address the ways it will approach its role as a public service broadcaster and also how it will be held accountable to its remits.(see Channel 4 Must Focus On PSB Future).
Andy Duncan, Channel 4 chief executive, will lead the first stage of the review, which will question whether the broadcaster’s current remit reflects its public position, and how it can better demonstrate to stakeholders that it has delivered public value.
The first stage will also feature review groups who will focus on Channel 4’s creative and economic impact off-screen, future audience needs and options for future forms of public funding support.
The second stage follows on in the autumn and will involve, says the broadcaster, “discussions with key stakeholders, including Ofcom, the government, viewers, producers, advertisers and other interest groups to ensure they have a say in the group’s future”.
Duncan said: “Our efforts must focus on ensuring we don’t ever reach the position where we have to stop fulfilling our remit because of financial pressures.
“Our task in the coming months is to convince politicians, policy-makers and the public that Channel 4 has a bright future as a public asset, newly shaped to meet the demands of a dynamic post-digital age and fully accountable to its many stakeholders.”
Duncan said that the review will give the broadcaster a new vision for its public service responibilities in a digital era, adding: “It will give our viewers and stakeholders clarity about the role that Channel 4 plays in delivering public value as we approach switchover. It will help to better demonstrate the many ways in which Channel 4 makes a vital contribution to viewers, society and the British economy.”
Channel 4: 020 7396 4444 www.channel4.com