Channel 4 has revealed that it was pressured by the department of Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries to see how it drafted references to its future finances in its annual report following the department’s decision to explore privatization.
In an appearance before the Digital, Culture, Media and Sports Commission, the station’s executive director, Alex Mahon, was asked to explain why there were delays in the publication of its annual report.
“It was suggested that there were some differences of opinion about future financial sustainability,” he explained, adding that it was “the first time I have been aware in 40 years that there have been consultations.”
Dr Mahon said the DCMS has now accepted that the original report can be presented to parliament as it stands.
Although Channel 4 privatization plans have now been called into question following the collapse of the Boris Johnson government, he told the Committee: “I have no vision on whether the legislation will be passed.”
While some have speculated that privatization plans could be abandoned, he said it had not been informed what the intentions of the Conservative leadership candidates for Channel 4 were or what the changes could mean for the station.
“They have a lot on their plate; I’m not sure we’re at the top of their list.”
Dr. Mahon was also asked to update the DCMS on the channel’s research on the claims the culture secretary made to the DCMS in May about her appearance on the 2010 reality show Tower Block of Commons.
Dorries, who was one of the MPs who went to live in disadvantaged communities, told parliament he had learned that the show had used paid actors to play real people, something the producer behind the show he denies it firmly.
“An allegation of falsehood was made and it is very important that we look at it closely,” Dr. Mahon told the committee.
“From what I’ve seen, there’s no evidence … but it’s important that we report correctly and we’ll post a statement later this week.”
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When asked to comment on the seriousness of the problem that would be if Dorries had lied in parliament, he explained: “We are here to offer programs that are true and correct. It is my job to do proper research … It is not up to me to do “What happens if things don’t work out?”
During the select committee hearing it also emerged that the station was only aware of the Culture Secretary’s intention to look at privatization “a few minutes earlier,” she tweeted.
Dr. Mahon denied that he indicated a “substantial break” in communication with the government.
“It probably indicates that a decision is being made and is being communicated quickly,” he told the committee.
Dorries has recently backed Liz Truss as the next leader of the Conservative Party, along with Brexit Minister of Opportunity Jacob Rees-Mogg.
A DCMS spokesman said: “As the owner of Channel 4, the government has every right to comment on the content of its annual report.
“During the normal discussion process we stressed that some language of the report could be interpreted as contrary to the commitment of the corporation, both officials and ministers, to refrain from campaigning against privatization.
“It is the government’s job to have a long-term vision on how to better secure the most successful future for Channel 4 in a rapidly changing media landscape and we believe that private ownership will give the station the tools to innovate and grow at a rapid pace. “.