Ofcom Warns Broadcasters of Sanctions for Breaching Election Rules, GB News in the Spotlight
The communications regulator Ofcom has issued a stern warning to broadcasters ahead of the upcoming general election, stating that any breaches of general election programming rules will be met with serious consequences. This warning comes in response to a number of breaches committed by GB News over the past year, including having politicians host news programs.
In its strongly worded statement, Ofcom emphasizes the importance of maintaining due impartiality during the election period and reminds broadcasters of Rule 6.6 of the Code, which prohibits candidates in UK elections from acting as news presenters, interviewers, or presenters of any type of program. Ofcom stresses that any breaches of election programming rules are likely to be considered serious and may result in the imposition of statutory sanctions.
These sanctions can range from fines to directions not to repeat content, or to broadcast corrections or statements of Ofcom’s findings. In severe cases, Ofcom has the authority to shorten, suspend, or revoke a broadcaster’s license.
Ofcom’s warning comes as the general election is scheduled to take place before January 25, 2025, although many predict it will be held earlier, likely in the fall.
In addition to its warning, Ofcom also released research on politicians presenting TV and radio shows. The research found that audience feedback broadly supports the existing ‘due impartiality’ rules in the Broadcasting Code. However, there is no clear consensus for an outright ban on politicians presenting current affairs programs, with opinions on this issue being mixed.
Ofcom emphasizes that audiences expect broadcasters who use politicians as presenters to take extra care to preserve due impartiality and suggests mitigations to alleviate concerns.
Channel 4 recently unveiled its general election team, with Prince Andrew interviewer Emily Maitlis presenting alongside Krishnan Guru-Murthy. The Rest is Politics hosts Rory Stewart and Alastair Campbell will also contribute to the coverage.
