What is Ofcom and how would regulations affect streaming services like Netflix and Disney+?

Streaming services are set to be regulated by Ofcom for the first time, under new government plans. Streamers such as Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+ will have to adhere to new rules as part of proposals to bring them in line with traditional broadcasters.

The plans have been revealed as part of the Government’s policy document outlining its vision for the broadcasting sector - which also reiterates the privatisation of Channel 4. Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries said the reforms would enable British broadcasters to thrive.

She added: “Rapid changes in technology, viewing habits and the entrance of global players have introduced new challenges for British broadcasters. Against that backdrop of rapid change, we need to take action to support British broadcasters in meeting the most pressing of those challenges.”

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Ofcom - short for Office of Communications - is the government-approved regulator and competition authority for the UK’s broadcasting, telecommunications and postal industries. Established in 2002, it has wide-ranging powers to help it regulate TV and radio, fixed-line telecoms, mobiles, postal services plus the airwaves over which wireless devices operate.

It has a statutory duty to represent the interests of citizens and consumers by promoting competition and protecting the public from harmful or offensive material. In terms of broadcasting, Ofcom licenses all UK commercial television and radio services in the UK. Broadcasters must adhere to the terms of the licence or risk having it revoked. Ofcom also publishes the Broadcasting Code, a series of rules which all content on television and