Islam Channel in trouble over sponsorship credits

Media regulator Ofcom has found the Islam Channel in breach of rule 9.22(a) in relation to sponsorship credits.

The rule states that “sponsorship credits must be distinct from advertising. In particular: Sponsorship credits broadcast around sponsored programmes must not contain advertising messages or calls to action.”

A statement from the channel said it strongly refuted that the credit contained any advertising messages.

The programme aired on 9th October 2013 Hajj Coach contained the following material:

Voiceover:
“The Live Prayers from Makka is brought to you by the Arabic intensive programme at Ebrahim College. Learn Arabic and remove those subtitles”.

On-screen text:
“The Arabic Intensive Learn the language of the Qu�۪ran in a Year. [sponsor�۪s website address and phone number]”.

Ofcom added that this was the second breach of this nature they have recorded against the Islam Channel. The regulator has therefore advised the channel to take particular care when complying material of this nature in future.