What is OFCOM?

OFCOM regulate TV, radio, video-on-demand services, mobile and postal services.

They are accountable to parliament, meaning they are a statutory regulator and have laws they have to enforce.

Jekyll and Hyde - Had complaints saying that it was too violent to be shown at 6:30pm on a Sunday. OFCOM opened an investigation to see if the broadcasting of the show before the watershed was appropriate. There are rules that say that broadcasters have to ensure children are not exposed to unsuitable material.

Channel 4 News Presenter - OFCOM rejected complaints about a Channel 4 News presenter, who wears a hijab, presenting the Nice truck attack. OFCOM stated 'The selection of a presenter is an editorial matter for the broadcaster, and the way in which the presenter chose to dress in this case did not raise any issues under our rules'.

Celebrity Big Brother - Christopher Biggins made comments about bisexual people. OFCOM received 44 complaints but said that it did not breach any rules. They understood that the comments could be considered to be offensive, though.

How are video games regulated?

They are regulated by the Video Standards Council and PEGI.

PEGI has eight key badges that show the content of the game. They are; violence, bad language, fear, sex, drugs, discrimination, gambling, online.

PEGI is backed by the Games Rating Authority which uses legal rating (3, 7, 12, 16, 18).

The GRA is a involuntary, statutory regulator.

Games containing pornographic content are regulated by the BBFC.

Illegal for 12 and under to purchase games.