British communications regulator Ofcom yesterday said it is seeking public and stakeholders’ views on areas where broadcast regulation might be reformed or streamlined to support growth and innovation across the sector.

It said a majority of the existing broadcasting legislative and regulatory framework were designed for a world of linear, scheduled programming. While it is currently implementing the Media Act to provide vital reform, more needs to be done so that audiences are protected wherever they are watching and listening to content, Ofcom explained.

“It is critical that regulation does not stifle innovation or deter investment in PSM (public service media) content, and it must be flexible enough to allow the industry to respond to inevitable future market changes. We are focusing on three broad areas for potential reform – licensing, advertising and content standards. We are particularly interested in evidence from stakeholders on the impact of current regulation on their business and views on where regulation may no longer be necessary given market developments, or which may be restricting innovation and competition,” the regulator said in a statement.

The UK media landscape is undergoing rapid transformation. As global tech giants flood the market with an ever-growing range of content, traditional broadcasters are in a fierce battle for audience attention, with online viewing choices increasingly driven by algorithms. Audiences are less likely to be exposed to the breadth of UK content that PSBs or public service broadcasters provide, such as trusted and accurate news and programming that represents the diversity of the nations and regions of the UK. Ofcom said in a background paper associated with the laws’ reviews.

Pointing out that it was critical that regulation does not stifle innovation or deter investment in PSM content, the regulator said the call for input is asking stakeholders for their views on how regulation needs to evolve in the short and longer term.

“Where possible, please provide evidence of regulation that is no longer appropriate given wider market changes or where it adversely impacts audiences, innovation, competition or the future provision of PSM. Where we consider changes to our regulation may be needed, we will consult on any proposed modifications to our rules. There may also be areas where legislative change would be required, and we will discuss these with (the) Government,” the Ofcom statement added.

After it receives submissions to its ‘call for input’ by mid-January 2026, Ofcom will consider all feedback, alongside any market developments and the UK government’s decision on how TV should be distributed in the future and prioritise its work accordingly.