Press Releases

Regulation review welcome

Radiocentre has welcomed Government plans to examine potential changes to the legislative framework for commercial radio.

The Minister for Culture and the Digital Economy Ed Vaizey MP outlined the details of proposals to review a number of key areas in a letter to Radiocentre CEO Siobhan Kenny received today (4 November).

In the letter, the Minister highlights the first phase of this work that will be undertaken by Ofcom and Government to consider the value of continuing with music formats and detailed localness requirements in their current form. He also makes a strong statement on the importance of local news and information for listeners.

This announcement comes against a background of a growth in choice and listening to digital platforms, which are not subject to the same range of regulatory requirements as traditional radio services on FM or AM.

Siobhan Kenny, CEO of Radiocentre says: “UK radio is a good shape with an unrivalled range of services available for listeners. But it also faces an unprecedented challenge in the battle for listeners and advertisers, particularly from online services that are largely unregulated. If commercial radio is to continue to support its fantastic mix of local stations and national brands, then it is right to take a fresh look at the regulation. We look forward to working with Government and Ofcom to try and help level the playing field so radio stations of all shapes and sizes have the flexibility they need in a digital age.”

Find full press release here