In new guidelines published today concerning broadcasters who break its content rules, the communications regulator has streamlined its sanctions process and clarified the procedures it follows when issuing directions or revoking licences.
Its move is aimed at improving transparency for broadcasters and will come into effect immediately, applying to all cases subsequently considered for a permit.
The new rules follow a public consultation on its content rules.
Some respondents complained that the existing procedures for dealing with breaches of content rules were lengthy and sometimes cumbersome.
Ofcom denied carrying out the review as a knee-jerk reaction to recent premium rate phone-in controversies, saying it had a always been its intention to review its sanctions procedures after their adoption in 2004.
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