‘Do not privatise TV station’ – MP plea

BARNSLEY East MP Stephanie Peacock has called on the government to not privatise Channel Four.

Speaking in the House of Commons last week, Ms Peacock said thousands of jobs could be lost.

She added: “Ministers cannot claim to support levelling up while letting this loss go ahead.

“When will they finally confirm that they know privatising Channel Four is the wrong decision for our economy, regions and culture?”

In response, Michelle Donelan, the secretary of state for digital, culture, media and sport, said: “I am reviewing this business case and I can assure all members that I am doing that thoroughly.

“I am basing my decision on evidence, I am listening to both representatives of the sector and all members of this house and the public, and I will come back shortly with our decision.”