Ofcom To Launch Participation TV Consultation

Ofcom is to launch a public consultation in early 2007 on how participation TV should best be regulated, with a view to finding the right balance between protecting viewers and protecting consumers.

Ofcom defines participation TV as television services (including but not limited to dedicated channels) that rely wholly or mainly on viewers paying for an opportunity to participate in the service, such as quiz services, adult chat, psychic readings and dating.

The regulator said that the consultation would address concerns regarding “a changing media environment where the boundaries between programming and advertising are becoming increasingly blurred as broadcasters seek new revenue streams.”

Ofcom is also seeking views on the broader question of how the content of these services should be regulated.

Specifically, should these services be considered as editorial, subject to the Ofcom Broadcasting Code, or advertising, subject to the Advertising Code enforced by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA).

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