Channel S ATN in trouble again with Ofcom

Channel S ATN has been given a firm warning by media regulator Ofcom for the amount of advertising broadcast on its channel.

A viewer contacted Ofcom who was concerned about the amount of advertising broadcast on Channel S ATN between 27th February 2008 and 2nd March 2008.

In addition to approximately 12 minutes of advertising in a commercial break, advertisements were also scrolled intermittently across the screen (in a banner) during programmes.

Channel S has apologised for the amount of advertising it had broadcast. The broadcaster said that it had broadcast in a similar way to other channels, which it had assumed were compliant with the Code. It explained that it had now stopped adding scrolled advertising across the screen during programmes and assured Ofcom that it was taking steps, including contact with its overseas programme supplier, to avoid recurrence.

Ofcom added: “It is very concerned that Channel S has admitted that it is unable to ensure UK compliance of Bangladeshi news material that includes superimposed scrolled advertising from Bangladesh. Channel S has been reminded of its obligation to ensure that all material broadcast on its UK services complies with regulatory requirements, including the Code.

“Ofcom is putting these licensees on notice that we will consider further regulatory action in the event of recurrence of breaches of a similar nature.”