Amid the fast-paced evolution of the UK media landscape, Ofcom, the country’s official broadcast regulator, is an unwavering advocate for impartiality and accuracy in broadcasting. As Ofcom launches two new investigations into GB News and Talk TV, Chief Executive Dame Melanie Dawes underscores the regulator’s commitment to the integrity of news and current affairs.
In an insightful article penned for The Telegraph, Dame Dawes shares Ofcom’s approach towards broadcast regulation in today’s rapidly changing media environment.
Ofcom: Celebrating 20 years of Diverse Perspectives in News Broadcasting
Celebrating two decades of its existence, Ofcom’s Chief Executive highlights the importance of diverse perspectives in news. The regulator has licensed over 2,000 TV and radio services to date, enriching the UK broadcast scene with a variety of stories, voices, and viewpoints. The rise of new channels, traditional news outlets expanding online, and emerging services like Tortoise, Bellingcat, and Medium, present a buffet of news for UK adults, especially the one in seven who primarily access news online.
The Role of Social Media and the Challenge of Clickbait
Dame Dawes also addresses the influential role of social media platforms in news discovery and fostering debate. However, the abundance of news sources can sometimes lead to information overload, with trusted news content competing for attention amidst unreliable clickbait. This is where Ofcom steps in.
Upholding Integrity with the Ofcom Broadcasting Code
In the face of this transformation, Ofcom remains steadfast in its mission to preserve the integrity of broadcast news and current affairs. Upholding the principles of due impartiality and accuracy, the two pillars of its Broadcasting Code, Ofcom is committed to protecting audiences from harm while providing them with a broad spectrum of information and ideas.
Interestingly, due impartiality does not equate to neutrality or a requirement for equal airtime for all sides of a debate. The emphasis is on ‘adequacy or appropriateness to the subject and nature of the programme’, allowing room for broadcasters’ editorial and creative freedom and encouraging challenging journalism.
The Rise of Politicians as Presenters: A Trend Under Scrutiny
The Ofcom Chief discusses the increasing trend of politicians serving as presenters, a development that some argue tests the limits of due impartiality. As per the Broadcasting Code, serving politicians can’t be newsreaders, interviewers, or reporters in news programmes, unless exceptional circumstances call for it. When that happens, their political affiliations must be made clear to the audience.
In response to the growing public interest in current affairs programmes hosted by politicians, Ofcom has initiated new research to better understand audience attitudes towards these programmes. The findings, due later this year, will offer a comprehensive understanding of the broadcasting landscape.
In a media landscape that’s continually evolving, Ofcom’s commitment to preserving the integrity of broadcast news and current affairs is more critical than ever. As we at Be Broadcast, a PR agency with a keen eye on these developments, are committed to helping our clients navigate this landscape while adhering to the highest standards of communication.
