Statement on Ofcom consultation on local news and information

This afternoon (Tuesday 1st July) Ofcom published its consultation on new local news and information requirements on analogue commercial radio that stem from implementing the Media Act.

Commenting on the consultation, Radiocentre CEO Matt Payton said:

“Commercial radio stations continue to provide highly trusted news output to millions of people each week, including regular local news. Ofcom’s latest proposals appear to do little to ensure the quality and relevance of this news content for the future. Instead they place unnecessary new requirements on broadcasters as well as expensive new obligations on some of the smallest commercial radio operators.

We look forward to engaging with Ofcom on the detail, but on the face of it it’s difficult to see how this approach is consistent with the government’s mission to reduce regulatory burdens and support economic growth. There is also an irony that these changes are being proposed at a time when the BBC’s publicly funded radio services are being granted permission to reduce news content or exclude it entirely.”

For more information on the consultation, which closes on 22nd September, please contact our Head of Policy Will Thomson.