In response to today's DTI announcement asking Ofcom to investigate Sky’s 17.9% stake in ITV, Sky has issued the following statement.

“The Secretary of State’s action today contradicts the Government’s published guidance, which clearly sets out the circumstances in which intervention will be considered. Any positive environment for investment requires that business should be able to rely with confidence on Government guidance when making decisions."

“We welcome, however, the Secretary of State’s emphasis that this is “an initial investigation” that is made “without prejudice” to any subsequent, substantive decisions.

“Sky will continue to engage fully with the DTI, the OFT and Ofcom during the ongoing process. Our minority shareholding in ITV has no bearing on the considerations of the public interest test relating specifically to media plurality. Indeed, when Parliament debated the 2003 Communications Act, it expressly considered that plurality would be protected if Sky were to own no more than 20% of ITV.

“ITV is a major, public company led by an independent and experienced Board. It is inconceivable to suggest that, as a result of a 17.9% shareholding in ITV, Sky would be able to influence ITV’s broadcasting strategy or policies, including programming or editorial decisions, which remain entirely the responsibility of the Board and, under its direction, management.

“In its short history, Sky has fundamentally increased choice for viewers, consistently pioneered innovations, invested in and developed quality on-screen content, and is now challenging incumbent telecom and cable providers with lower cost broadband and phone services. Sky makes a significant contribution to plurality in the highly competitive media sector.”