THE Scottish Government "strongly supports" keeping Channel 4 public and claims selling it off would not be in the public interest.
The change could damage Scotland's creative sector, it is claimed.
In June it was announced that the UK Government is to review the ownership model and remit of the broadcaster, potentially leading to it being privatised as early as next year.
In a statement, the UK Government said "moving Channel 4 into private ownership and changing its remit could help secure its future as a successful and sustainable public service broadcaster".
Today the Scottish Government has dismissed this, saying the change would "weaken its ability to deliver programmes in the public interest".
Scotland's Culture Secretary Angus Robertson made that claim after meeting with Alex Mahon, the chief executive of Channel 4.
READ MORE: Stuart Cosgrove: What next for Channel 4 as Conservatives plot their revenge?
The Scottish Goverment says Robertson "strongly supports the public service broadcasting system and the unique role Channel 4 has in investing in and supporting development of the independent production sector".
A consultation on the channel's future has been launched by the UK Government’s Department of Culture, Media and Sport.
Robertson, a former foreign and diplomatic correspondent for the BBC World Service, said: "It is clear to me that if the channel is sold to the private sector, Scotland will lose the strong momentum and valuable partnerships that it has built with our creative sector.
"We oppose any plans that could jeopardise the important and distinctive role Channel 4 plays supporting innovative independent production in Scotland, its ability to reach and represent diverse audiences and foster new creative talent, as well as its role in providing accurate and trustworthy news."
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