UK gov’t promises Brexit support

ETVF: The UK government will support the country’s broadcast industry in Brexit negotiations to protect the sector, according to the recently appointed secretary of state for digital, culture, media and sport.

Jeremy Wright

Jeremy Wright, who replaced Matt Hancock in the role last month, will outline the government’s commitment to the industry at the Edinburgh TV Festival this afternoon in his first speech to the industry.

As the UK prepares to leave the European Union next year, Wright is expected to reaffirm that the government will support the UK broadcasting and media industry in negotiations to ensure that the sector can “go from strength to strength.”

Addressing issues around the UK’s negotiations as it prepares to leave the EU, Wright will say: “Strong public service broadcasters mean a strong broadcasting sector as a whole. They are vital in helping all broadcasters find talent, and one of the things I have heard loud and clear already is how important it is to find the right talent in this industry.

“I know that there is concern about how talent will be able to move between the UK and the EU after EU exit. Although you will understand that the final outcome is still subject to our future immigration system, I can say that the government well and truly understands how important mobility is for this sector.”

“As outlined in the recent White Paper, we are seeking to agree a framework for mobility with the EU. This will include reciprocal arrangements to allow UK nationals to visit the EU without a visa for short-term business reasons, with equivalent arrangements for EU citizens coming to the UK.

“And we are working on a broader accord with the EU on culture and education that will, among other things, allow for the temporary movement of goods for major events, tours, exhibitions, and productions. We understand the importance of retaining European Works Status for the sector and we were able to confirm this earlier in the year.

“I recognise, of course, that there are still issues to be resolved in this [EU exit] process and you have my assurance that I will make the case for the interests of this sector as we seek to resolve them. But regardless of our settlement with the EU, broadcasting will remain a vital part of what Britain offers the world. Because we have a broadcasting sector that’s really worth shouting about.”

The recent White Paper was criticised by figures such as Adam Minns, executive director of the UK’s Commercial Broadcasters’ Association (COBA), who said it offered “little clarity” for the UK’s £1bn (US$1.3bn) international broadcasting industry when it comes to “jobs, technology and content.”

During the speech, Wright is also set to back an increased regional presence among broadcasters and encourage other pubcasters to mirror recent moves by Channel 4 to relocate part of its operations outside of London.

“In a fast-changing media environment, it is more important than ever for broadcasters to reach out and reflect the UK as a whole. A media that is clustered in the capital can’t possibly reflect and represent the rich and diverse tapestry that is the UK,” Wright will say.

“I am looking forward to hearing the location of the new national HQ and creative hubs in October and I hope all broadcasters and producers will follow their lead and encourage the spread of jobs, prosperity, and opportunity beyond London.”

Commercially funded UK pubcaster C4 named Leeds, Birmingham and Manchester as the three UK cities it is eyeing for its new national headquarters, with a further three – Bristol, Cardiff and Glasgow – being considered for a “creative hub.”