New measures could empower Ofcom to enforce broadcast standards on BBC news articles
The UK government is pushing for significant reforms that could grant Ofcom the ability to enforce broadcast standards on BBC News articles published online. Currently, Ofcom’s role is limited to offering opinions, but under these proposed changes, the regulator would gain new powers to take action on BBC’s digital content, such as its website and YouTube channels.
This shift in responsibility is part of broader reforms outlined in the government’s Mid-Term Review of the BBC’s Royal Charter, which governs the corporation’s operations. The review is aimed at ensuring the BBC maintains public trust, particularly in terms of its impartiality and its handling of complaints.
Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer stressed that the BBC needs to adapt to these changes to maintain its credibility with audiences. The reforms suggest expanding Ofcom’s role to not only review but also enforce impartiality standards, which include monitoring news content across BBC’s digital platforms.
The review also focuses on the BBC’s internal complaints process. New measures will ensure greater scrutiny, with the BBC Board now taking on a more active role in overseeing how complaints are handled. The BBC has welcomed the findings, stating that it remains committed to upholding impartiality, with detailed plans already in place to address these concerns.
Further recommendations urge the BBC to enhance its representation of diverse groups, including disabled individuals and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, acknowledging that these audiences feel underrepresented. This move is part of a wider effort to ensure the BBC continues to be a trusted news source for all viewers.
