The network has not held this position on a consistent basis since 2006.

The network also holds two conferences per year.

Together, the networks currently hold 68 percent of the television audience during prime time, down from 80 percent only five years ago.

The network holds workshops and puts out a directory to help schools set up senior projects.

The network has started a campaign and held rallies, to bring wider attention to the situation of refugees.

In that way, networks and studios held on to the rights of projects.

Mr. Ailes said the network held the government accountable when necessary.

But he expressed confidence that his network could hold its own against the two American giants.

Last week, the 14-year-old network held a five-day symposium here on how runaways have changed.

Concerned about possible reprisals from the John Birch group, the network held to its decision.