I'm pleased that the government has been able to work with broadcasters on guidance to get filming rolling safely on our favourite TV shows and soaps again.
We're hoping to help get more of our brilliant creative industries up and running, whilst of course ensuring safety of all staff is at the heart of plans.
Our nation’s favourite soaps are expected to resume production in the coming weeks, after new industry guidance is published by broadcasters today.
The new guidance sets out steps for a safe return to television production in a significant move towards getting the cameras rolling again on some of the nation’s favourite shows.
Popular programmes like Eastenders, Coronation Street, Emmerdale and Top Gear are expected to start filming again in the coming weeks.
The guidance, produced in collaboration between broadcasters, industry experts and safety consultants, builds on the government’s publication of its COVID-19 recovery strategy earlier this week. The new production protocol also reflects the latest government advice on the safe return to work.
Although some TV production has continued during lockdown with strict measures being taken to minimise social contact, wider production has been impacted by the coronavirus outbreak.
The government has been working closely with broadcasters and representatives from the wider film and TV industry in recent weeks to understand the impact of the coronavirus outbreak on the sector, and has provided a substantial financial package of support, including the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, Self Employment Income Support Scheme, cash grants and loans.
The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, which has protected millions of jobs since the beginning of the outbreak, has now also been extended until October to provide further support as people begin to return to work.
The government has also been working closely with broadcasters and representatives from the wider film and TV industry in recent weeks to understand the impact of the coronavirus outbreak on the sector.
The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport has been in regular contact with the screen sector and will continue to work with the industry as it develops further guidance for film and high-end TV drama production.
Ministers will also work with the industry on the next steps of recovery as part of the Recreation and Leisure task force, one of five new task forces established to plan for a safe return to activity.
Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, Oliver Dowden, said:
Great British television is keeping us company throughout the crisis, and I’m keen to get cameras rolling as soon as it is safe to do so. This is a significant step forward in getting our favourite shows and soaps going again.
Our creative industries are Britain’s global calling card, and I want to see them get back to doing what they do best safely.
