The United Kingdom’s broadcasting regulator is calling for a radical overhaul of laws to ensure that public service media (PSM) survives and thrives in the digital age.
The final report of the Office of Communications (Ofcom) follows consultations with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Ofcom said it found consensus on two fundamental issues — the importance of PSM and the urgent need to update the system to ensure its future sustainability.
Chief Executive of Ofcom, Dame Melanie Dawes (pictured) said the report made clear that public service programing remained highly valued by audiences, and the pandemic had only served to reinforce its role in society.
“Our findings emphasise the special importance viewers place on high-quality, trusted and accurate news,” Dame Melanie said.
“It reveals a passion for soaps, drama and live sports, which bring the nation together, as well as programs which reflect the diversity of the UK’s nations and regions,” She said.
“To secure the future of PSM, broadcasters must accelerate their digital plans if they are to maintain a strong link with audiences, and the regulatory system also needs to be urgently updated.”
Dame Melanie said PSM’s creative sector was the envy of the world, but public service media was facing a triple threat — from large global players, viewers turning towards online services, and increasing funding pressures.
“If we’re to preserve public service media and its outstanding content for future generations, change needs to happen — and fast,” the Chief Executive said.
“That’s why we’re recommending the biggest shake-up to public service broadcasting in 20 years,” she said.
“Our plan of action sets out how the industry, Government and Ofcom can together build a stronger system of public service media that can thrive in the digital age,” Dame Melanie said.
London, 18 July 2021
