Top header Banner
Top header Banner
Middle top Banner

Ofcom reviewing Russia Today in UK after spy row

UK media regulator, Ofcom is currently reviewing the position of Russia Today, which broadcasts as RT HD in the UK.

The channel has come under much scrutiny about the way its funded after links of Russia to a chemical weapon attack in the UK.

Ofcom is looking into the channel’s conduct and whether it is fit and proper to hold a UK broadcasting licence, considering its funded by public budget of the Russian state.

Ofcom said, “Should the UK investigating authorities determine that there was an unlawful use of force by the Russian state against the UK, we would consider this relevant to our ongoing duty to be satisfied that RT is fit and proper.”

In response to this, RT was seen by Sky News responding with, “We disagree with the position taken by Ofcom; our broadcasting has in no way changed this week, from any other week and continues to adhere to all standards.

“By linking RT to unrelated matters, Ofcom is conflating its role as a broadcasting regulator with matters of state.

“RT remains a valuable voice in the UK news landscape, covering vital yet neglected stories and voices, including those of the many MPs and other UK public figures who have been shut out of public discourse by the mainstream media.”

Sky News also reports Russia’s foreign ministry warning that if RT is shutdown in the UK, it will “not a single British media outlet will work in our country”.