Ofcom TV Production Sector Review

In light of the significant growth of the UK's television production sector, Ofcom have been asked by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport to review the sector. The review will cover four areas including: the changing market context and scenarios for future market development, the effectiveness of the current regulations, the impact of production sector regulation on PSBs, and options for reform of regulation. Ofcom are keen to receive views on the key issues, and following this, intend to publish a final report before the end of 2015.

Ofcom brings video on demand regulation in-house

In 2010, Ofcom designated Authority for Television On Demand (ATVOD) to co-regulate video on demand programme services. However, on 14 October 2015, it was announced that from 1 January 2016, Ofcom will take sole responsibility for regulating video on demand services to sit alongside the regulation of broadcast content. Ofcom have confirmed that "the move follows an Ofcom review to ensure regulation of broadcast and on-demand content remains as effective and efficient as possible for the benefit of consumers, audiences and industry". The Advertising Standards Authority will continue to act as a co-regulator for advertising content on video on demand services. Ofcom have also confirmed that, the ATVOD published fee tables will continue to apply to 31 March 2016 and no further fees will be due for this period. In relation to future financial years, Ofcom will consult on any future fees as required by the Communications Act.

Ofcom consultation on access requirements for non-domestic TV Channels

Since 14 October 2015, Ofcom have been consulting on access requirements for non-domestic television channels. Non-domestic television channels are those that are licensed by Ofcom but which transmit into other EU member states. The consultation invites views on, signing arrangements for non-domestic channels, assistance for deaf language users in different European countries and extending the channel access requirements serving all members of the European Economic Area from 1 January 2017. Ofcom's obligations in this respect derive from the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (2010/13/EU) (AVMS). The consultation closes on 16 December 2015.

Responses can be made here.

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