How the audience saved UK broadcast journalism

Abstract

This chapter argues that UK TV news and current affairs are currently in rude health, with sound prospects for the short to medium term. The situation for radio is more mixed, with a growing quality divide between BBC and commercial radio. An increased focus on the audience has enabled high-quality, imaginatively crafted output, still watched and heard by millions, despite growing choice. Three case studies are used: a BBC Panorama investigation, Sky News coverage of Libya, and ITV Granada Reports coverage of the Morecambe Bay Chinese cocklers tragedy, examined through interviews with senior broadcasters, audience research data and a focus group.