Streaming giants will be subject to a new video-on-demand code, which will be drafted and enforced by Ofcom, it has been announced.
The Government says the Media Bill, announced in the King’s Speech, will make long-term changes to better protect children by applying similar standards for TV to streaming services.
The UK media watchdog will be given the power to draft and enforce the new code to level the rules with traditional broadcasters.
Viewers will then be able to formally complain to Ofcom about content on streaming platforms.
Ofcom currently enforces rules set out in the Broadcasting Code, which apply to TV and radio and are designed to protect viewers and listeners from harm.
The code includes rules on the 9pm watershed, hate speech, offensive language and product placement.
Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Paramount+, Discovery+, Hayu, ITV X and other streaming services are currently covered by statutory rules enforced by Ofcom.
However, Netflix, which has a European base in the Netherlands, is not regulated by Ofcom but instead by the Dutch media regulator, the Commissariaat voor de Media.
On-demand programme service (ODPS) rules are currently not as wide-ranging as the Broadcasting Code.
The Government says the new on-demand code will be “proportionate”.
The Media Bill also includes action to ensure viewers can more easily discover public service broadcast services such as BBC iPlayer and ITVX on smart TVs, set-top boxes and streaming sticks.
It also features plans to support Channel 4’s sustainability by allowing the broadcaster to make more of its own programmes.
