The review aims to remove inconsistencies and complexities that currently exist between linear and video-on-demand platforms
The UK government has announced a review into whether to strengthen the rules that apply to video-on-demand services. Currently what rules apply to who are mixed. Linear broadcasters such the BBC and ITV have to comply with Ofcom's Broadcasting Code covering governing harm, offence, accuracy and impartiality, but most streaming services do not. Separate rules regulating incitement to hatred and other harmful material apply to streaming services with head and editorial offices in the UK (Amazon Prime and Disney+, but not Netflix). In performing the review, the idea is to level the playing field and move further towards a model where the BBC is able to compete more fairly. It’s expected most of the streaming services will accept the greater scrutiny, which will replace self-regulatory initiatives some have signed up to on issues such as age classification for content.
