Media Bill secures future of radio as broadcast landscape changes

Speaking at an event on the future of the broadcast media landscape, Radiocentre’s Director of External Affairs Michael Ireland has outlined how provisions for radio in the upcoming Media Bill will ultimately benefit audiences as listening habits shift towards online and digital formats.

Jointly hosted by media consultancy Oliver & Ohlbaum Associates and law firm CMS, ‘Through the looking glass: when broadcasting becomes just streaming’ explored the legal, policy and practical considerations on the future of UK broadcasting and the creative industries. Alongside Radiocentre, the agenda featured contributions from the BBC, Ofcom, BT, ITV, Paramount and YouTube.

On the significance of the legislation, which is currently progressing through parliament, it was highlighted that the proposed powers have received strong cross-party parliamentary support and industry-wide backing. Michael affirmed during the event that the Media Bill would “help ensure radio remains viable in an IP world and secure the value of radio for audiences.”

As well as emphasising the importance of the Media Bill in his speech, Michael also took part in a panel session around the future of radio distribution, including in cars and on smart speakers. The discussion underscored the need for co-ordination, cooperation, and commitment from the wider industry to successfully navigate the transition from traditional broadcast to IP listening.

Further information on the Media Bill can be found here.