Huw Jones confirmed as S4C chairman

Culture secretary Jeremy Hunt has today confirmed the appointment of Huw Jones as the new chairman of Welsh-language broadcaster S4C.

Jones was the first chairman candidate to appear before a joint hearing of the culture and Welsh affairs committees last month. His appointment as chair of the S4C Authority has now been confirmed, officially starting on June 8.

He served as chief executive of S4C from 1994 to 2005, during which time he also chaired the channel's commercial subsidiary and was a director of digital multiplex operator SDN.

Before joining S4C, Jones co-founded independent TV production company Teledu'r Tir Glas in Caernarfon in 1981, overseeing entertainment, factual and children's programmes.

Welcoming the appointment, Hunt said: "Throughout his career he has shown great commitment to Welsh-language broadcasting and his unique experience and understanding of S4C will stand him in good stead as he leads the organisation through this important stage of its history."

Jones becomes chairman at a critical period of change for S4C, as the struggling broadcaster prepares for its funding to hand over from the government to the BBC licence fee.

During his pre-appointment hearing, Jones was also challenged by culture committee chairman John Whittingdale over the Welsh-language broadcaster's "pretty poor" viewing figures.

S4C reaches only a quarter of Welsh speakers for 15 minutes or more a week with programmes such as soap opera Pobol y Cwm, and Whittingdale warned that this situation must improve "quite dramatically".

Rheon Tomos, the S4C Authority deputy chairman, said: "Huw's extensive experience along with his in-depth knowledge of the broadcasting world will be of huge benefit to S4C as we face the numerous challenges of the next few years. We look forward to supporting Huw in his new role."

Jones is also currently chair of Portmeirion and deputy chair of the Wales Employment and Skills Board, as well as a member of the Welsh Language Board.