C4 joins the beeb?

net1

It is being reported new Channel 4 chief executive Andy Duncan has raised the prospect that some of the broadcaster's operations might be merged with those of his previous employer, the BBC. Duncan allegedly told senior staff that collaboration between Channel 4 and the BBC could help ensure Channel 4's survival.

Meanwhile, United Business Media, said talks between Five – in which UBM has a 35% stake – and Channel 4 over a possible merger were continuing. "Both the teams at Channel 4 and Five share the view that the combination would be very attractive in terms of what we can offer our viewers and advertisers," said Lord Hollick, CEO. "The merger would be their preferred option, but that's just one of the many options we are looking at.

It seems the momentum behind C4 losing its independence is becoming unstoppable, particularly if the new CEO chooses merger with his old employer as the topic for his first conversation with senior staff.