Government expands Ofcom powers to regulate major UK streaming services
The UK’s biggest streaming platforms are set to face tougher rules as the government moves to update broadcasting regulations for the on‑demand era.
New secondary legislation laid under the Media Act 2024 will bring major video‑on‑demand (VoD) services – those with more than 500,000 users – under enhanced oversight from Ofcom, aligning them more closely with traditional broadcasters.
Platforms including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, ITVX and Channel 4’s streaming service will be required to follow a new VoD standards code. The move reflects a decisive shift in viewing habits, with the majority of households now subscribing to at least one major streaming service. Government data shows 85% of people use an on‑demand platform each month, compared with 67% who still watch live television. For younger audiences in particular, streaming has become the default way to consume content, often bypassing scheduled TV altogether.
Until now, traditional TV channels have been bound to Ofcom’s Broadcasting Code and strict accessibility requirements, while many popular VoD services have not been regulated to the same degree—and in some cases, not regulated in the UK at all. Ministers argue this disparity creates inconsistency in the standards that viewers can expect, as well as potential risks when navigating online content.
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Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said the changes were essential to keep pace with how modern audiences watch television. She described the reforms as part of a commitment to strengthen protections for viewers while supporting a competitive and innovative media sector. Bringing major streaming platforms under Ofcom’s expanded remit, she added, would create a more level playing field and ensure trust in the standards applied across all forms of TV‑like content.
Under the new rules, Tier 1 VoD platforms will be required to ensure news content meets standards of accuracy and impartiality, and that harmful or offensive material is properly managed. Viewers who encounter concerning content will be able to lodge complaints directly with Ofcom, which will have powers to investigate and take enforcement action where necessary.
Accessibility is also a key part of the reforms. A dedicated VoD accessibility code will set minimum requirements for subtitles, audio description and signing. Platforms will need to subtitle at least 80% of their catalogues, audio‑describe 10% and provide signing on 5% of programmes. The aim is to broaden access for viewers with disabilities—particularly those who are Deaf, hard of hearing, blind or partially sighted—and ensure a more inclusive viewing experience across the board.
