Future of PSM: Ofcom concludes in-depth review by recommending a radical overhaul of the legislative framework
Summary
A transition from PSB to PSM to be fit for the digital age On 15 July 2021, communications regulator Ofcom published detailed recommendations to the UK Government on the future of public service media. In addition, Ofcom looked all around the world for inspiration and conducted extensive market analysis. • PSM needs to reach the widest possible audiences, on TV and online to secure its future Based on the findings, Ofcom recommends that the UK Government urgently brings forward primary legislation to: • Ensure a transition from public service broadcasting to public service media: through the introduction of a revised set of PSM objectives, securing and strengthening a broad range of programming that reflects the diversity of the UK and the ability to engage the widest possible audiences online and offline. • Update the rules for prominence to include connected TV platforms: Ofcom is repeating its urgent call (issued in 2019) for legislation to secure prominence for live and on-demand public service content across all major TV services and platforms. In return for more flexibility, PSM providers must be accountable and ensure transparent reporting of performance.