Downing Street is moving forward with plans to privatise one of the nation’s most popular government-owned TV networks, Channel 4

The UK government has announced that it wants to privatise Channel 4.

The network, which broadcasts programmes including Gogglebox and Countdown, could be privatised under a plan to “sell off” the company.

Launched in 1982, Channel 4 is a government-owned TV broadcaster, made up of 12 channels in total, including a streaming service called “All 4.”

Declining traditional TV market

Instead of receiving public funding like the BBC, Channel 4 earns its revenue through advertising.

Downing Street says that because TV advertising revenues are declining, along with traditional TV viewing, Channel 4 is being held back from competing with other TV services.

It says it wants to sell Channel 4 to a private company.

Many media critics have stated a privatisation of the network could risk the quality of content put to air, while some of the network’s own talent – Channel 4 stars Matt Lucas and Kirstie Allsopp are among the figures who have raised concerns about the government’s plan.