麻豆社

As Channel 4 approaches its 40th birthday, it faces one of the most pivotal moments in its history. The broadcaster is funded by advertising but is publicly owned, for now. As part of the Queen鈥檚 speech this week, the government confirmed its plans to privatise Channel 4 despite the broadcaster鈥檚 opposition. In fact, Channel 4 has published an alternative showing us what it wants to become if it weren鈥檛 privatised, something the Department of Culture, Media and Sport said was based on 'flawed assumptions'. However Channel 4鈥檚 future is settled will have major ramifications for the UK鈥檚 TV industry. Whether it will make such a difference to the programmes that Channel 4 offers viewers depends on who you ask. At the centre of this issue are two key figures, Nadine Dorries, the culture secretary, and our guest in this edition, Alex Mahon, chief executive of Channel 4. Presented by Ros Atkins.