Conservative peer and former broadcaster Michael Grade has been named as the government’s preferred candidate for the next chair of Ofcom.

Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries announced on Thursday afternoon that ministers believe Lord Grade, who has had a long career working in television – including stints at ITV, BBC and nine years as the chief executive of Channel 4 – is the “ideal candidate” for the role.

“I am delighted to announce that Lord Grade is the government’s preferred candidate to be the new chair of Ofcom,” Ms Dorries said in a statement.

“Lord Grade’s experience at the highest level of a number of broadcasters and his expert knowledge of the British media landscape makes him an ideal candidate for this role.

“Going forward, Ofcom has an even more important role to play as the UK’s communications regulator.

“The introduction of the Online Safety Bill will give it new responsibilities and resources to ensure digital platforms tackle illegal and abusive material online.

“I am confident that under Lord Grade’s leadership Ofcom will rise to the challenge with great success.”

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Lord Grade, who became a peer in January 2011, said he is “privileged” to be asked to become the regulator’s new chairman.

If appointed, Lord Grade will move to the cross-benches in the House of Lords and will give up any non-executive roles that could cause a conflict of interest in his new position.

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