Skip to main content

Tory threat against BBC and Channel 4 sparks fury

LABOUR accused the Tories yesterday of “undermining” Britain’s state broadcasters through a series of “anonymous briefings.”

Shadow culture secretary Chris Bryant criticised the government after reports that ministers are considering cuts to both the BBC and Channel 4.

Funding for the BBC Trust, which represents licence fee payers, free TV licences for the elderly, the BBC World Service and Welsh language services are all expected to be cut.

And Westminster sources told the Telegraph that Culture Secretary John Whittingdale wants to flog off Channel 4’s London headquarters, forcing the station to move to Birmingham.

Mr Bryant pointed out the plans weren’t in the Tory manifesto.

He said: “Another day, another anonymous media briefing from the government threatening the future of one of our public-service broadcasters.

“Instead of undermining the BBC and Channel 4, the government should be ensuring they have a strong future in a rapidly changing world.”

OWNED BY OUR READERS

We're a reader-owned co-operative, which means you can become part of the paper too by buying shares in the People’s Press Printing Society.

 

 

Become a supporter

Fighting fund

You've Raised:£ 9,899
We need:£ 8,101
12 Days remaining
Donate today