Appearing before the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee, the broadcaster’s chief executive Dr Alex Mahon was asked to explain why there had been delays in publishing its annual report. “It was suggested that there were some differences of opinion about future financial viability,” he explained, adding that it was “the first time I know of in 40 years that there have been questions”. Dr Mahon said DCMS had now agreed that the original report could be tabled in parliament as is. While plans to privatize Channel 4 are now in doubt following the collapse of Boris Johnson’s government, he told the Commission: “I have no view on whether the legislation will pass.” While some have speculated that the privatization plans could be scrapped, he said he had not been told what the Conservative leadership candidates’ intentions are for Channel 4 or what the changes might mean for the broadcaster. “They’ve got a lot on their plate – I’m not sure we’re at the top of their list.” Dr Mahon has also been asked to brief DCMS on the channel’s investigation into allegations the culture secretary made to DCMS in May about her appearance on the 2010 Tower Block of Commons reality show. Dorris, who was one of several MPs who went to live in deprived communities, told parliament she had been told the show had used paid actors to play real people, something the production company behind the show strongly denies. “There has been an allegation of forgery and it is very important that we get it right,” Dr Mahon told the committee. “From what I’ve seen, there’s no evidence … but it’s important to get it right and we’ll be releasing a statement later in the week.” Subscribe to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker When asked to comment on how serious an issue it would be if Dorries lied to parliament, she explained: “We are here to deliver programs that are true and right. It’s my job to do a proper investigation… It’s not for me to comment on what happens if things aren’t followed.” It also emerged during the select committee hearing that the broadcaster was informed of the Culture Secretary’s intention to consider privatization “minutes ago”, he tweeted. Dr Mahon denied suggesting a “substantial breakdown” in communication with the government. “It probably indicates that a decision was made and communicated quickly,” he told the committee. Dorries recently endorsed Liz Truss as the next leader of the Conservative Party, along with Brexit opportunities minister Jacob Rees-Mogg. A DCMS spokesman said: “As the owner of Channel 4, the government is fully entitled to comment on the content of its annual report. “During the normal debate process we highlighted that some language in the report could be interpreted as being contrary to the company’s commitment, given to both officials and ministers, to refrain from campaigning against privatisation. “It is the government’s job to take a long-term view of how best to secure the most successful future for Channel 4 in a rapidly changing media landscape and we believe that private ownership will give the broadcaster the tools to innovate and developed at a pace”.
