Streaming services face tighter UK regulation

Streaming services face tighter UK regulation

Streaming services will be regulated by Ofcom under new Government proposals that will see a tougher crackdown on harmful material.

Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and various other streamers will be given new rules and guidelines to bring them more in line with traditional broadcasting.

The culture secretary suggested the move would protect audiences from harmful material.

A White Paper policy document has been set out for the reforms by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries said: “The UK’s TV and radio industries are world-renowned for their creativity, driven by exceptional talent delivering groundbreaking public service programming.

“Set against the backdrop of the digital transformation of our viewing habits, today’s plans will revamp decades-old laws to help our public service broadcasters complete in the internet age.”

At the current time, most on-demand services are not subjected to the Broadcasting Code, whilst traditional TV channels do.

Public service broadcasters have been suggesting streaming services should adhere to the same regulations for some time.

The Government said the new rules will “level the playing field.”

They have said the maximum fine for VoD services that break rules will be £250,000, being subjected to stricter rules.

The BBC reported an Ofcom spokesman said: “We’re pleased to see the government taking forward many of our recommendations, particularly around securing prominence for on-demand public service content. We will continue to offer support with the development of future legislation.”

Netflix said: “As we’ve previously said, we are supportive of measures to update the legal framework and bring our service in the UK under Ofcom’s jurisdiction.

“We look forward to reviewing the White Paper’s other proposals and continuing to engage the government on their plans.”