PPA Asks Government To Amend Communications Bill

The Periodical Publishers Association (PPA) has asked the Government to categorically support continued independent self-regulation of the internet, amending the Communications Bill accordingly (see Jowell Announces Communications Consultation).

The group has proposed that publishers should be differentiated from other broadcasting sectors and continue to operate under the current self regulatory regimes.

Safo Kaordestani, of the PPA told Newsline: “If Ofcom were to extend its remit to the internet, publishers might face different regulations for their online content. The formation of Ofcom as we understand was designed to put an end to such regulatory confusion, not add to it.” Publishers point to the success of self-regulatory Press Complaints Commission, Advertising Standards Agency and the Committee of Advertising Practice Codes. The internet is also regulated by the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), founded in 1996 by the UK internet service provider community. In its submission to the Joint Scrutiny Committee the IWF stated that it: “Clearly sees the need for the co-ordination of activity between itself and Ofcom and would hope that Ofcom would consult with the IWF on areas that fall within IWF’s remit.” The PPA would like to see government clarification of the issues surrounding internet regulation with an amendment to quash fears of future government intervention

PPA: 020 7404 4166 www.ppa.co.uk

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