Culture secretary Matt Hancock has reportedly instructed Government officials to begin working on legislation that will force Channel 4 to move out of London.
According to the Daily Telegraph, Hancock is hoping to put pressure on Channel 4 chief executive Alex Mahon to voluntarily agree to a move. He would use the legislation if no deal is agreed.
The paper says no decisions have been taken, but it is understood the Government is considering backing a Private Members’ Bill already proposed by Conservative backbencher Jack Brereton.
Although no final decisions have been made, the Government is believed to be confident that legislation forcing Channel 4 to relocate outside of London would have cross-party support as it would provide a boost for creative industries in the Midlands and the North.
