A Government Communications Bill, expected towards the end of 2002, is likely to propose a new system of accountability for Channel 4 and Britain's other public service broadcasters with a strong emphasis on self regulation.

In anticipation of this change, Channel 4 and its regulator, the Independent Television Commission (ITC) are exploring a system of programme promises to be made at the beginning of each year by the Channel and reviewed at the end of the year by the ITC. 

Channel 4 welcomes this as a practical means of encouraging broadcasters to set themselves clear ambitions and targets.  The Channel's Statement of Promises for 2001 follows.