The government's broadcasting white paper, which includes a decision on the future on Channel 4, has reportedly been delayed by several months.

The broadcaster is enduring an anxious wait over its fate as the government mulls whether to put it up for sale - a move that has largely been criticised by those working in the industry for its potential impact on the creative sector and independent production companies.

The white paper was originally expected late last year but according to a report on Deadline, its publication has now been delayed until "the spring".

The website said that sources had indicated that culture secretary Nadine Dorries's department is "overwhelmed" by other issues, including the future of the BBC and the Online Harms Bill, the latter of which is passing through parliament at the moment.

The consultation into Channel 4's future drew a huge number of responses, thousands of which are still believed to be unread.

The broadcasting white paper is also expected to award prominence to UK streaming services such as BBC iPlayer and All 4 ahead of the likes of Netflix and Prime Video on smart TVs and other devices.