Union wants Sky to make more drama

Equity, the union that represents actors, is calling for the government to fine broadcasters like Sky who do not commission original TV drama.

The General Secretary of Equity, Christine Payne has criticised the satellite and digital TV channels such as Sky for not funding enough home grown drama and relying on repeating programming that has been made by other channels.

BSkyB has responded by saying that while other broadcasters are cutting back on their drama production Sky has in fact increased the amount of funds available for original productions.

This has come to the surface at a House of Lords communications committee, where the Equity leader was giving evidence for the committee’s review of how the film and TV industry can contribute more the UK economy.