Streaming giants under strong UK regulation

Popular TV giants like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney + Might face more tight regulations in the UK. The traditional broadcasters like BBC and ITV go through a competition with the regulator Ofcom’s code regarding issues like harm, accuracy, offense, and impartiality. But most of the streaming platforms do not face such things.

The government has recently come up with an announcement about reviewing the strengthening of the rules. The ministers have also confirmed a consultation about the privatization of Channel 4. The broadcaster is currently getting the fund from the adverts. But it has public ownership. The only streaming platform that must adhere to Ofcom’s broadcasting code is BBC iPlayer. The regulator can issue the suspension of license, fines if they break the rule. There are separate rules which regulate incitement to hatred. Another one is the harmful material that applies to the streaming services with the head and the editorial offices of the UK.

This includes the famous TV giants like Amazon Prime and Disney+, but not Netflix. Currently, the Ofcom website contains a statement that says, “Netflix is based in the Netherlands and therefore not within Ofcom’s jurisdiction”.

However, some services have introduced voluntary procedures of their own. It includes Netflix’s age rating partnership with BBC. The government has said that there is currently an – “inconsistent, ad-hoc and potentially harmful gap in regulation”.

Oliver Dowden, the Culture Secretary, has said that this proposed regulation would prevent traditional broadcasters from competing. He further said that their broadcasters could not do it all alone. They cannot compete in a digital world while following up the analog rules. This summer, they will consult on whether this is the right time to set some of the basic rules for these services similar to the traditional broadcasters or not.

Last year Netflix faced much criticism from Mr. Dowdens for its The Crown drama series. The changes in the streaming regulations and Channel 4’s ownership can get included in a new media law. Channel 4’s executive has warned that the privatization can make it less likely to make any shows. In the announcement of Wednesday, the government has confirmed that it would go ahead with its new laws to restore the lost zeal of the traditional broadcasters.

Credits: BBC