For immediate release
Responding to reports of Michelle Donelan, secretary of state for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, recommending against privatising Channel 4, Joe Ventre, digital campaign manager of the TaxPayers’ Alliance, said:
“Taxpayers will feel betrayed that the culture secretary has caved in to broadcasting big-wigs and backtracked on privatisation plans.
“Not only could selling off the broadcaster be a boon for the public finances in tough times, but it would allow the channel to become truly competitive in the digital age.
“There is clearly no need for Channel 4 to remain shackled to taxpayers in the year 2023, so it should take the next step and stand on its own two feet.”
TPA spokespeople are available for live and pre-recorded broadcast interviews via 07795 084 113 (no texts)
Media contact:
Elliot Keck
Investigations Campaign Manager, TaxPayers' Alliance
[email protected]
24-hour media hotline: 07795 084 113 (no texts)
Notes to editors:
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Founded in 2004 by Matthew Elliott and Andrew Allum, the TaxPayers' Alliance (TPA) campaigns to reform taxes and public services, cut waste and speak up for British taxpayers. Find out more at www.taxpayersalliance.com.
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TaxPayers' Alliance's advisory council.
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The TaxPayers' Alliance launched the Axe the Tax campaign in January 2020, calling for an end to the television licence fee and the sale of Channel 4.
- TaxPayers’ Alliance research has previously proposed the sale of the BBC and Channel 4 to help them compete with streaming giants.