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February 2004
Changes
to Broadcasting Regulations
The new Communications Act requires all terrestrial, cable
and satellite broadcasters for the first time to subtitle
60% of their programmes within five years. This target
will increase to 80% after ten years. Furthermore, Ofcom,
the industry's regulatory body, now has the power to insist
on increased standards from those broadcasters who have
the capacity to deliver.
At present, many programmes by the BBC, ITV, Channel 4,
S4C and Channel 5 have subtitles. Some also have sign
language or audio description - an extra soundtrack where
a narrator describes events. Many television channels
are now available on satellite, cable and digital terrestrial
as well as analogue. Ofcom's draft code, which has been
prepared in accordance with the Communications Act 2003,
would require most of these channels to provide television
access services.
The consultation on the draft code will close on 12 March
2004. Ofcom is seeking views on issues such as the level
of audience share which should trigger the provision of
access services, the way in which affordability is assessed,
and how best to ensure that services reach their intended
audience.
For further information, contact Ofcom via their website:
Office of Communications (Ofcom)
http://www.ofcom.org.uk/
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