Ofcom Launches First Stage Of Radio Review

Ofcom has announced the first stage of its proposals for the UK radio industry, intended to support greater choice for listeners and less intrusive regulation of the commercial radio sector.

The watchdog’s review of the nation’s commercial radio broadcast industry has been undertaken as result of the Broadcasting Act, requiring Ofcom to report to the Secretary of State on the progress and future prospects of digital radio in Britain.

Additionally Ofcom is obliged to produce guidance for broadcasters on the inclusion of local material and local production in analogue commercial radio.

The review is structured into two main phases. The first addresses the immediate priorities in preparation for a digital-only radio industry, while phase two, due to be published in spring 2005, will aim to reach conclusions on “a broad number of issues of interest to the radio industry as a whole”.

Under the first phase, Ofcom has opened a consultation period to gather opinions on several potential options for the future of digital radio. Amongst those proposals tabled by the regulator is the allocation of additional spectrum to complete the coverage of DAB local digital radio throughout the UK, and a raising of the current 20% limit on digital multiplexes for non-programme related data such as multimedia downloads.

In addition, Ofcom has proposed a new system of co-regulation to define audio quality standards for digital radio broadcasts and receivers, making the realities of digital radio more likely to meet audience expectations.

Views have also been invited on the allocation of 10 medium wave frequencies, for use by new community radio or regional commercial services, and which could be re-used in more than one area. The watchdog was recently inundated by requests for community radio licences, which will allow small, not-for-profit organisations to operate low power broadcasts serving small areas of the country (see Ofcom Inundated With Community Radio Requests).

Ofcom: 020 7981 3040 www.ofcom.org.uk

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