Ofcom

MediaGuardian has a primer on the new Office of Communications set up by the Communications Act 2003 - Countdown to a new order.

December 29 is when Ofcom (Office of Communications), the super-regulator for broadcasting and telecommunications, formally starts work and a big, bold experiment begins. It takes over from five bodies: the ITC, Radio Authority, Oftel, Radio Communications Agency and Broadcasting Standards Commission.

OfCom currently has a transitional Web site with details of its mandate and whatnot. Their specific duties fall within 6 areas;
  1. Ensuring the optimal use of the electro-magnetic spectrum
  2. Ensuring that a wide range of electronic communications services - including high speed data services - is available throughout the UK
  3. Ensuring a wide range of TV and radio services of high quality and wide appeal
  4. Maintaining plurality in the provision of broadcasting
  5. Applying adequate protection for audiences against offensive or harmful material
  6. Applying adequate protection for audiences against unfairness or the infringement of privacy

In the process of doing this they must a) further the interests of citizens in relation to communications matters; and (b) further the interests of consumers in relevant markets, where appropriate by promoting competition.

Posted by Paul at December 1, 2003 03:32 AM |

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