Duncan Asserts Importance Of PSB For Channel 4
Speaking at the Oxford Media Convention earlier today, Andy Duncan, chief executive of Channel 4 outlined his vision for the broadcasters future, asserting the channel had an important role in the deliverance of public service content.
Duncan stated that Channel 4 had both the “ambition and potential to be the alternative, alter ego and public pacemaker to the BBC in the digital world.”
Channel 4 has already made movements within the public service broadcasting (PSB) arena, with its news, current affairs programming and comedy scheduling providing key publics service broadcasting.
Duncan claimed that these moves were “setting benchmarks encouraging other PSBs, notably the BBC to raise their game.”
Channel 4 currently holds two big advantages in the current television marketplace, its strong relationship with young audiences, and the capacity to harness commercial means to a public purpose end.
In order to take advantage and safeguard its position, Duncan claimed the broadcaster was concentrating on “safeguarding its core channel as the centrepiece of its endeavour and expanding its multi-channel portfolio.”
The Channel also deemed exploiting new media channels, such as the internet and digital radio, critical, with the creation of new revenue streams of crucial importance as advertising revenue comes under pressure.
Duncan commented: “I’m determined that we stay ahead of the curve and stretch the creative potential of online and mobile platforms, because that’s absolutely part of out remit.” He revealed that £12 million had already been earmarked to invest in tailor-made content to support the emerging new media supply sector.
Turning towards digital radio, the chief executive asserted its importance in keeping in line with the broadcasters strategy of “putting public service plurality on every platform.”
Duncan revealed that Channel 4 was putting together a serious bid to apply for the second national DAB multiplex licence now on offer, with the aim of launching a portfolio of innovative 4-branded radio services delivered via DAB and other platforms.
Duncan explained: “Radio makes a perfect fit with our digital strategy. As well as offering a new outlet for original material, there’ll be spin-off opportunities from our factual and entertainment output and we bring to the table a reputation for high programme standards and an unrivalled record of innovation.”
He continued: “Our aim is to contribute something new to the radio mix by offering a public service alternative to BBC news, current affairs, entertainment, lifestyle and comedy.”
In order to achieve these ambitious aims, Duncan stressed the importance of Channel 4 receiving help with transitional distribution rollout and the capital costs associated with these as the switchover date approaches.
He said: “We’re not holding out the begging bowl and we’re emphatically not demanding a public payout in exchange for out digital vision, but we must be confident of a lifeline if the business model proves insufficient to deliver public service plurality in a much tougher environment further down the track.”
Duncan added: “Ofcom and the Government have listened sympathetically, but we really need some firm parameters for the next ten years now, so we can plan with confidence, just as the BBC is allowed to do. Leaving Channel 4 out of the equation when the Charter is being settled is like filling up the public service vehicle with petrol before a long journey, but forgetting to pump up the tyres.”
Channel Four: 020 7396 4444 www.channel4.com