Ofcom has announced plans to introduce enforceable rules for the BBC's online content, aiming to ensure high standards across websites, apps, social media accounts (including reposts), and educational materials. The regulator is currently seeking public opinion on the proposed regulations.
New Rules for Online Content
A spokesperson for Ofcom stated: "The aim is to ensure that the BBC's online material meets similar high standards to those which audiences expect from traditional broadcast content. Where needed, the proposed rules have been tailored to reflect the differences between broadcast and online content." Historically, Ofcom lacked the power to enforce rules for BBC online material, only able to consider complaints and provide non-binding opinions on whether the BBC observed its own editorial guidelines.
Increased Oversight of Complaints
Ofcom is also increasing its oversight of BBC complaints. Audiences must still complain to the BBC first, but the corporation's decisions will now face "greater transparency and external scrutiny" from Ofcom. The regulator will take on a new duty to regularly review a sample of complaints that reach the BBC's stage two process, when complaints are escalated to the BBC's Executive Complaints Unit.
Consultation and Implementation
Ofcom said the new regulations would "strengthen protections for audiences" as more people access BBC content online. The planned changes follow an extension of Ofcom's powers in the Government's BBC mid-term review. The consultation on the proposed new code, which includes procedures for handling complaints, investigations, and sanctions, is open until August 27, 2026. Final decisions are expected later this year, with accompanying guidance to be published at that time.
