UK communications regulator Ofcom has called for “urgent clarity” into how TV will be distributed to reach future audiences.
Ofcom says broadcasters must work more, both together and with global tech firms, to survive.
In a statement, the regulator said the public service media was under serious threat with the PSBs are finding it much harder to fund the production and distribution of high-quality UK content to all audiences.
Ofcom has set out a six-point action plan, but says its recommendations would require a collective effort from PSBs, social media and video sharing platforms, the Government, and Ofcom itself.
Cristina Nicolotti Squires, Broadcasting and Media Group Director, Ofcom said: “Public service media is stitched into the cultural fabric of UK society. It starts conversations, educates and informs, and brings us together in moments of national importance.
“Our six-point plan would involve collective action from broadcasters, online platforms, the Government and Ofcom. It maps out a clear route that would help sustain public service media for the future.”
Ofcom’s 6-point plan
- There should be prominence and discoverability for PSM content on third-party platforms. As a priority, public service broadcasters should work urgently with YouTube, to ensure that PSM content is prominent and easy to find on the platforms, and on fair commercial terms. The regulator says it was particularly important for news and children’s content, and it believes there is a strong case for Government to legislate to enable the change.
- Stable and adequate funding to sustain a broad range of PSM content, including news and children’s. It recommends that priority be given to socially valuable but commercially less viable genres, such as news, local news and children’s content.
- Urgent clarity on how TV will be distributed in the future. Ofcom says a decision in the future of digital relevision should be taken by early 2026. A later decision risks undermining the investment and innovation needed to put universal TV distribution on a sustainable footing inclusive of all audiences.
- PSM firms must forge ambitious strategic partnerships at scale. Scale is critical for the public service broadcasters and other domestic broadcasters to connect with audiences and compete with global streaming platforms – who, in some cases, they depend on to reach viewers. Competition and plurality need to be preserved, but broadcasters must be more ambitious in pursuing strategic and technological partnerships.
- Broadcasters and online platforms must invest in media literacy. Ofcom believes Media literacy skills are essential for using, understanding and navigating digital services, and for critically engaging with news and other content.
- Streamlined regulation to strip away any outdated and unnecessary restrictions. Much of the current legislative and regulatory framework was designed for a world of traditional, linear TV.
Ofcom is already working on the implementation of the 2024 Media Act and is now looking towards possible further reform of the system is needed to support public service content.
The first step will be a comprehensive call for evidence this autumn. Ofcom is also working with Government on its BBC Charter review which will play a central role in supporting the future of PSM.
