Broadcast regulator Ofcom says it has not yet seen detailed plans for the merged UK/World News channel that the BBC intends to operate from April 2023.
The BBC confirmed in July that it would be revamping its TV news service. This will affect viewers in the UK and around the world. Under the plans, UK daytime hours will be presented from London. At other times, programmes will be anchored from Singapore and Washington.
After BBC staff went public over a reduction of content for the UK, Ofcom says it expects the BBC to be “clear about how it plans to ensure BBC News continues to provide high quality UK news.”
In a statement issued Friday, Ofcom admitted it hadn’t yet received full details of the BBC’s proposals.
But Ofcom is currently consulting on plans that would relieve the BBC of its regulatory conditions regarding the News Channel. The service is currently obligated to broadcast more local/regional news stories than other rolling news channels in the UK. This means it has a limit to how much World News content it can show.
BBC insiders say the removal of that condition paves the way for a simulcast of the service aimed at global audiences. Sources close to broadcasting unions say UK-specific output, including the 8pm news hour and The Papers are facing the axe. UK-only content will come from simulcasts of programmes already being shown on BBC One or BBC Two. Major breaking news stories affecting the UK will trigger a temporary opt-out of the global service.
Ofcom warning on BBC transparency
Ofcom also used the statement to remind the BBC of its duty to be transparent. It noted that its ongoing consultation also includes a review on how the BBC should be held to account on behalf of audiences, including how it can ensure that the BBC is more transparent about its plans and performance.
BBC insiders say the plans for BBC News, currently proceeding without consultation or publication of details, highlights the BBC’s shortcomings.
Meanwhile, Ofcom has confirmed it proposes to retain a range of quotas to secure the BBC’s news delivery. It plans to introduce a new objective for it to provide a breadth of local, regional, national and international stories for UK audiences across its services, including on the BBC News Channel. And Ofcom says it reserves the right to reinsert conditions to the operating licence.
Iain Hatton, features writer, RXTV