First UK broadcasting devolution study gets go ahead
Published: 28 April 2025
The first four-nations study of broadcasting policy in a devolved UK is set to begin following the awarding of a major research grant.
The first four-nations study of broadcasting policy in a devolved UK is set to begin following the awarding of a major research grant, it was announced today.
The study is led by Professor Jamie Medhurst from the Department of Theatre, Film and Television Studies at Aberystwyth University will work alongside Dr Inge Sorensen from the University of Glasgow, Dr Phil Ramsey from Ulster University and Dr Tom Chivers from Goldsmiths, University of London.
Many policy areas, such as health and education, are the responsibility of the devolved governments in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. However, the legislative and ministerial powers for broadcasting remain in Westminster; held by the Secretary of State for the UK-wide Department for Culture, Media and Sport.
There is growing pressure from political parties in the devolved nations for broadcasting powers to be devolved, most recently in the Scottish National Party and the Plaid Cymru manifestos for the 2024 General Election.
A £79,600 Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) Curiosity Grant has been awarded to conduct the research.
Professor Medhurst, leading the study, said: “The concept of the UK – as a unitary state, made up of four nations – is coming increasingly under pressure, and the issue of how broadcasting both reacts to and shapes these debates is a growing issue on policy, political and academic horizons.
“This two-year project will provide a unique and novel forum for discussion, knowledge exchange and cooperation on current and future broadcasting policy in an evolving UK, with a focus on the devolution of broadcasting powers to Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.”
Dr Inge Sorensen, Senior Lecturer in Theatre, Film & Television Studies at the University of Glasgow’s School of Culture & Creative Arts, said: “We live in complex and rapidly changing times, surrounded by vast amounts of media content from transnational media players and platforms. The production and distribution of content – film, TV and media – take place in an increasingly globalised screen industry. In this context, the role and remit of broadcasting in a devolved UK and across the nations and regions gain increasing cultural, civic, and social significance. The ways we are portrayed and how we see ourselves reflected on screen has never been more important.”
The research team will hold a workshop in each of the nations, bringing together academics, policymakers, politicians and broadcasters to consider how broadcasting might operate in a more devolved United Kingdom.
Following each workshop, a briefing paper will be produced, drawing together the main issues discussed, together with policy recommendations.
In April 2027, a UK-wide conference will be held, where the final project report will be published. The report will reflect on the findings of the project and will provide a strong evidence base for decision making and policymaking going forward.
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First published: 28 April 2025