Protests are taking place today (2 November) in London and Leeds against plans to privatise Channel 4.
Organised by performing arts and entertainment trade union Equity and public service group We Own It, the actions are taking place outside Channel 4’s offices in London and Leeds to coincide with the broadcaster’s 40th anniversary.
Plans to privatise Channel 4 were first tabled by ex-Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries and are known to have support from new Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
Current Culture Secretary Michelle Donelan has said she will “re-examine the business case” before moving forward with a sale.
Today’s protests have been backed by high-profile names including the Archbishop of York and Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin.
“It’s had an amazing year. 55% of all spend in the nations and regions. 400 roles outside London. 1.5 billion views on All 4. Its strongest ever financial performance to date. And all because of its unique mandate to the public,” Brabin said.
“Our talented creatives are grateful for the jobs, our indie companies are grateful for the work, and our audiences are grateful for the high-quality programming it always delivers. Privatisation would threaten all of this.”