Ofcom

Ofcom, the Office of Communications, is the independent regulator for the United Kingdom’s communications industries. It was established by the Communications Act 2003, bringing together predecessor bodies such as Oftel, the Independent Television Commission, and the Radiocommunications Agency. As an independent public body, it operates at arm’s length from government and is accountable to Parliament, with governance provided by a board and a chief executive.

Its remit covers television and radio broadcasting, fixed-line and mobile telecommunications, spectrum management, and postal services (regulated in the broader sense since 2011). Ofcom licenses operators, allocates radio spectrum, and sets conditions for licensees. It enforces consumer protection and competition rules, investigates complaints, and has powers to impose penalties or remedies when required. In the broadcasting sphere, Ofcom regulates content standards for television, radio, and on-demand services, and issues guidance and decisions under applicable codes and regulations.

In practice, Ofcom conducts market analysis and publishes reports, consumer guidance, and policy recommendations. It works to promote competition, protect consumers, and support the development of reliable communications infrastructure, including broadband and mobile networks, while coordinating with the government on policy issues within its statutory framework.

The regulator is designed to operate independently of day-to-day government policy, but remains subject to parliamentary oversight and statutory provisions. While the government retains some reserved powers, Ofcom’s work is guided by legislation and its mandate to ensure fair and effective communications in the UK.