BSC Expresses Concern On 3 Broadcasting Issues

In its first annual report, the Broadcasting Standards Commission’s (BSC) chairman, Lady Howe, has today said that there are three issues which arise from the nature of complaints and research that should be considered more closely.

Firstly, the BSC is concerned about informed consent of individuals to appear in documentaries and docu-soaps. “Sometimes participants are aware they are to be included. Sometimes that is not the case. Modern technology has ensured that recording equipment gets smaller and smaller… The result is that many may not be aware that they are about to become participants in a programme. Broadcasters should ensure that proper consent is given,” she said.

Secondly, Howe refers to the ‘increasing’ number of ‘confessional’ programmes. This issue is linked to consent, she says, and raises questions of how far a broadcaster should be allowed to go in the ‘battle for audience ratings’. “The Commission supports programme-makers in their desire to cover and discuss difficult social and emotional problems but some would argue that the exploitation of the misfortunes of others is not an endearing human trait. There is a limit to trial by television,” she said.

Lastly, Lady Howe commented on ‘the competitive nature of soap operas’ by claiming that “sensationalism is creeping into storylines”. The use of sexual and social issues as part of everyday life was worrying considering that most soaps are broadcast before the watershed.

More generally, Howe stressed the importance that the BSC remains independent. She said that whatever shape broadcasting takes in the coming years, “consumers and citizens will still need an independent body… which can reflect their concerns about quality, standards and values and provide a source of redress by adjudicating impartially on their complaints.”

Broadcasting Standards Commission: 0171 233 0398