Meaning: The quote by Lee Child highlights the impact of changes in the British regulatory system on the quality of programming. It suggests that the revision of the regulatory system led to a focus on bigger profits, which in turn resulted in a decline in the quality of programming. The quote also alludes to the departure or dismissal of experienced individuals from the industry due to cost considerations.

The British regulatory system refers to the set of rules, regulations, and policies that govern various industries and sectors within the United Kingdom. These regulations are designed to ensure fair competition, consumer protection, and overall stability in the marketplace. However, regulatory changes can have significant implications for businesses and industries operating within the country.

In the context of the quote, the revision of the regulatory system appears to have prioritized the generation of larger profits. This shift in focus may have been driven by economic or political considerations, as policymakers sought to incentivize businesses to maximize their financial returns. As a result, the emphasis on profitability may have overshadowed other important factors, such as the quality of programming in the entertainment industry.

The quote suggests that the encouragement of bigger profits had a detrimental impact on programming. This implies that the allocation of resources, including financial investments, may have been skewed towards activities that directly contributed to profit generation, potentially at the expense of creative or artistic endeavors. As a result, the quality of programming suffered, leading to a decline in the overall content offered to audiences.

Furthermore, the quote indicates that experienced individuals, referred to as "old hands," either chose to leave the industry or were let go due to concerns about their cost. This phenomenon is not uncommon in industries undergoing significant regulatory or economic changes. Experienced professionals may be seen as more expensive to retain, especially if the focus shifts towards maximizing profits in a cost-conscious environment. The departure or dismissal of these individuals could have further contributed to the decline in quality, as their expertise and institutional knowledge may have been crucial for maintaining high standards in programming.

Lee Child, the author of the quote, is a renowned writer known for his Jack Reacher series of novels. As an established figure in the literary world, Child's perspective on the impact of regulatory changes on the entertainment industry carries weight and reflects the experiences of professionals within the field.

In conclusion, the quote by Lee Child sheds light on the repercussions of regulatory revisions in the British entertainment industry. It underscores the trade-offs that can occur when the pursuit of bigger profits takes precedence over other considerations such as quality and expertise. The insights shared in the quote serve as a reminder of the complex interplay between regulations, financial incentives, and the creative output of industries, and the potential consequences of prioritizing profit over quality.