Rav Casley Gera’s Blog

Is it possible that two announcements coming out of the media industry this week encapsulate the very essence - and intrinsic limitations - of New Labour? On the one hand, a ban on junk food advertising to children; on the other, not a breath of concern when Rupert Murdoch’s BSkyB buys an 18% stake of ITV. Address the excesses of the market, where they have a clear, measurable effect on the vulnerable; but show not the slightest concern over media consolidation that leaves one of the core cultural organisations of the country a likely target for a takeover by a right-wing foreign conglomerate. Admittedly, Murdoch’s move could increase competition by preventing a takeover of ITV by NTL. Nevertheless, ten years ago, for Murdoch to own a good chuck of ITV would surely have seemed inconcievable? Isn’t it possible that, thanks to New Labour’s cheery enthusiasm for unfettered markets, its much-publicised nods towards regulation are no more than tinkering?

UPDATE 25/05/07: Well shut my mouth.