YouTube News

Simon Squibb urged followers to fight UK broadcaster algorithm plan

Simon Squibb, Sorted Food, and others warned algorithm changes would push creator content down as a government consultation nears its end.

Major UK YouTube creators are fighting a government proposal that would elevate BBC, ITV, and Channel 4 content in platform algorithms, The Guardian reported. Simon Squibb posted on Instagram asking followers to oppose the measure before the consultation closes at the end of the month.

Squibb told his audience the plan could force traditional broadcaster material into feeds whether viewers wanted it or not. He compared the approach to state-controlled media in Russia.

Ben Ebbrell of Sorted Food, which draws 15 million monthly views, said the idea undermined 16 years of audience building after television ignored YouTube's rise.

Jade Beason, who has 310,000 YouTube subscribers and has worked with broadcasters on digital projects, said public service outlets should adapt to platforms rather than jump the queue.

Grace Andrews, who helped launch The Diary Of A CEO, is coordinating creator responses before the deadline. YouTube has encouraged creators to submit to the consultation.

Public service broadcasters collectively pushed the proposal as a way to preserve trusted British material. Ministers prefer a voluntary deal with digital platforms but have pointed to legislation if needed. Video-sharing platforms accounted for 74% of viewing time among 16- to 24-year-olds in 2024-25, according to the paper.

A Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport spokesperson said the government wants public service media content to be easily discoverable on YouTube and does not see the plan as a zero-sum game between broadcasters and creators.