Independent Television in Britain - (Itv and Iba 1981-92: The Old Relationship Changes) by P Bonner & L Aston (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

A stimulating treatment of an area of public life which is a subject of continuing debate and controversy. This volume covers the years in which ITV faced more challenges than at any time in its history and its regulator, the IBA, was subject to political pressures so extreme that they brought about its abolition and rebirth as the Independent Television Commission. The book gives detailed accounts, based on documents not previously available and interviews with over sixty senior figures in the industry, of the changes and controversies of the period. Highlights include: the conflict with government over the programme Death on the Rock, the battle with the BBC for possession of the rights to Dallas, the financial crisis at ITN, the impact of the Peacock Committee Report and the 1990 White Paper on Broadcasting, as well as detailed accounts of the broadcasters' and the regulator's battle with the government over the Broadcasting Bill and the subsequent 'auction' of ITV licences.

Review Quotes

'...a sound and well-documented account of what was the most fraught and perhaps the most critical decade in the continuing story of Independent Television so far.' - Sir Denis Forman, The Times Higher Education Supplement

'...this is an important, indeed, essential book for anyone interested in the development of the sometimes bizarre British broadcasting system.' - Times

About the Author

PAUL BONNER is a former director of Programmes at C4 and Chairman of ITV Network Controllers. He has over 25 years experience in Television and Radio, BBC: Radio 1955, Television Producer/Director (Current Affairs and Documentary Programmes) 1960-1974. In charge of Community (Access) programmes 1974-1977. Then head of Television Science programmes until 1980.

First Director of programmes at Channel Four 1980-1987, Director of Programme Planning and Chairman of Network controllers Group at ITV Association 1987-1992, and Director, Secretariat ITV Network Centre 1992-1994.

LESLEY ASTON is a freelance researcher.