C4 merger withITVis ‘interesting possibility’

MERGING CHANNEL 4 with ITV is an “interesting” possibility, according to the media minister.

The Government has launched a consultation into the privatisation of Channel 4 amid concerns over its ability to compete with streaming giants, such as Netflix and Amazon Prime.

Conservative MP Julian Knight, chairman of the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee, suggested options could include a merger with ITV or BBC Worldwide – the commercial arm of the BBC.

Minister John Whittingdale said the Government “maintains a completely open mind” about the future of the broadcaster but did note his party colleague had raised “interesting possibilities”.

Channel 4 is owned by the Government and receives its funding from advertising, but could be sold off to a private buyer.

Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Knight said: “The recovery of Channel 4 and the evolving media landscape warrants close consideration of privatisation and sale.”

He added: “Would the minister agree with me that it would be a good juncture to also consider whether Channel 4 could be bolstered by a potential merger with ITV or even hive off BBC Worldwide – the commercial arm of the BBC, which has often underperformed but has tremendous international potential to build scale for Channel 4?”

Mr Whittingdale said: “We have reached no conclusion as to what is the appropriate future ownership model for Channel 4.

“We maintain a completely open mind but he raises a number of interesting possibilities.”