The symbolic agenda of a British satellite broadcaster's 1997 general election coverage

This study of Sky News, run by Britain's main satellite station, suggests t hat its decision to provide intensive coverage of the 1997 general election was determined less by hopes of commercial payoff than a desire for self-r espect and the admiration of politicians and fellow broadcasters. This symb olic agenda boosted the self-image of Sky staff as major media players and ensured a continued adherence to conventional notions of public service bro adcasting.