Independent radio production companies today responded to the speech given by BBC DG Tony Hall, in which he proposed wide‐ranging changes in TV commissioning, removing quotas and allowing BBC Production to compete to make programmes for other networks.
Radio Independents Group Chair Phil Critchlow said: “Tony Hall has today said: ‘competition should go beyond television production, can we extend competitive access for independent producers in radio, if that will mean broader choice and better ideas?’ ‐ The independent radio sector’s answer is empathically ‘yes’”.
“Indie radio producers based across the UK have a proven track record creatively, and are more than ready to contribute world class ideas, with the competitively priced resources needed to deliver them.”
“Regardless of the state of the overall radio market, as far as the BBC is concerned more creative competition from both external suppliers, as well as a healthy in house production base, will be a creatively powerful, and cost effective approach to bringing the widest possible range of stories, ideas, perspectives and talent to the Licence Fee Payer.”
*** For press enquiries please contact Tim Wilson, RIG media and policy adviser, on 07909 560 374 or tim at twcentral.co.uk
Notes
1. The Radio Independents Group is the trade body representing the UK independent radio production sector. The sector is made up of approximately 150 creative companies, spread around the whole of the UK. RIG members represent around 95% of industry turnover, which we estimate as a whole to be some £40m. These creative companies make radio content for commercial networks as well as BBC networks. They also are engaged in producing a variety of other content for corporate clients, as well as overseas networks and companies. Audiobooks, podcasts, museum audio‐guides, audio games and other multimedia formats. It is estimated the sector employs well over 1,000 people, mostly in skilled production roles.