UK media regulator Ofcom has warned the BBC about the complaints process and impartiality concerns, and also launched a public consultation on an updated version of the broadcaster’s operating license.
Ofcom has tracked audiences’ experiences and interactions with the BBC and found that while one in nine people have reason to complain, most don’t, because they feel it won’t make a difference or be taken seriously. Ofcom said these concerns for the BBC are twice as high as for other broadcasters.
Ofcom also asked the public about BBC news and current affairs and found that while they rate its news highly for reliability and accuracy, they on the contrary rate it less favorably than neutral. Ofcom is now directing the BBC to change its policy and publish sufficient reasons in cases where it decides not to uphold due impartiality and due accuracy complaints.
In April, the UK government issued a white paper that, if implemented, will reshape the country’s broadcasting landscape. Then Ofcom on Wednesday opened a public consultation on how to update the BBC’s operating license.
Ofcom is proposing a multi-platform digital license, which will operate according to three main principles: it must include BBC online services; It should give the BBC more leeway to determine how to meet the needs of the public; It will require more transparency from the BBC. Ofcom will hold the BBC accountable on behalf of the public.
Ofcom suggests maintaining a range of stakes, including for protection: the delivery of news and current affairs on BBC radio and television services; UK original content on each BBC TV service; Distinguishing BBC Radio Services (music shares for BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 2, live or specially recorded music for BBC Radio 3 and sports coverage for BBC Radio 5 Live); and regional productions in television and radio.
Public consultation on the operating license ends on September 14th.
Melanie Dawes, chief executive of Ofcom, said: “Viewers and listeners are telling us they are not happy with how the BBC has handled their complaints, and it is clear that it needs to address widespread perceptions of its impartiality. So we direct it to respond to these concerns, by being more transparent and open with its audience. .
“The BBC must also adapt quickly to keep pace with changes in what audiences want and how they get their content. We are doing our part, by scrutinizing our regulations going forward so that the BBC can continue its transformation for the digital age.”
diverse Reached out to the BBC for comment.
Ofcom recently found Britain’s Channel 4 broadcaster in violation of subtitle requirements.
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