Public Policy and Independent Television Production In the U.K.

Abstract

The structure and performance of the independent televisionproduction sector in the UK have been strongly affected by public policy interventions. Such interventions have introduced more competition andhave generally sought to strengthen the position of ‘indies’ by, forexample, raising levels of demand for their output amongst domesticvertically integrated broadcasters. However, the efficacy of such policies in terms of developing a thriving and economically successful independent television production sector is open to question. This article provides an analysis of the effects of recent policy initiatives on the creative work environments and on the business circumstances and behaviors of UK independent program-makers.

Key Words:

• television
• programming
• policy
• competition
• United Kingdom