§ Mr. LawsTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what assessment she has made of the effects of privatising Channel Four; and if she will make a statement. [100338]
§ Dr. HowellsThe Government considered the future of Channel Four in the context of developing its proposals for broadcasting in the Communications Bill. Channel Four's current structure as a non-profit making statutory corporation works well, and it remains a central element in the Government's vision for the broadcasting industry in the digital future. I expect Channel Four to continue to fulfil a vital role in providing diverse and innovative public service programming of high quality.