ITV could drop news pledge unless ministers offer help against streamers

Leaked government advice says ITV feels prominent channel positioning irrelevant as many bypass live TV

ITV could abandon its commitment to make news output if the government does not pass a law to protect British television channels from streaming services, according to leaked guidance drawn up for ministers.

Civil servants warned the culture secretary, Michelle Donelan, that ITV could choose to abandon its status as a public service broadcaster unless legislation is passed urgently.