C4 to axe More4 and Noon news shows with loss of 20 jobs

The broadcaster has confirmed the move, which was revealed earlier this afternoon by Channel 4 News technology correspondent, Benjamin Cohen, on his Twitter page.

It is understood that almost 20 journalists employed by ITN, which produces Channel 4's news output, are likely to be made redundant.

The broadcaster, which has opened a voluntary redundancy programme and has started a consultation period with staff and unions, believes that it can find other posts for the rest of the 33 staff affected by the cuts.

More4 News, which runs after Channel 4's flagship news programme Channel 4 News, was launched in October 2005 and is presented by former Channel 4 News Asia correspondent Kylie Morris.

Channel 4 said it would still offer a short summary bulletin on Channel 4 at noon and in addition to redirecting resources to its main news programme, it would be investing in improving its online political news coverage.

In a statement, it said: "These changes come against a backdrop of a severe economic slowdown. We are endeavouring to maximise efficiencies whilst maintaining quality and have had to make the tough but necessary decision to prioritise and protect our award-winning news service."

A spokesperson for ITN said: "We are immensely proud of the high quality programming produced for Channel 4.

"Whilst we are very disappointed that the financial challenges facing the channel have left them with no option but to reduce budgets, we've worked in partnership with Channel 4 to identify savings which will not jeopardise the quality and integrity of the flagship Channel 4 News bulletin. We look forward to continuing to provide the programme for many years to come."

This article was first published on brandrepublic.com