Ramzan FM (Oldham) rapped by Ofcom

UK media regulator, Ofcom has rapped Ramzan FM, which was available in Oldham as a RSL station (Short Term Restricted Service Licence) last year.

Ofcom noted several appeals for listeners to donate money to a particular organisation. In order to verify compliance with the Code, Ofcom asked the Licensee to provide details of this organisation and confirmation of its charitable status. However, the Licensee did not supply this information. Ofcom considered the matter raised issues warranting investigation. Ofcom therefore asked Licensee how it complied with Condition 9(1) in this case and to provide the information.

The broadcaster did not respond to Ofcom�۪s requests for its comments.

Ofcom has a duty to ensure that in each broadcaster�۪s licence there are conditions requiring that the licensee provides to Ofcom information which Ofcom requires to carry out its regulatory duties. In this case, the Licensee failed to provide Ofcom with the requested information. Ofcom is therefore recording a breach of Condition 9(1).

This particular breach of Licence Condition 9(1) is significant because it impeded Ofcom�۪s ability to assess whether content broadcast on the station raised potential issues under the Code. This breach will be held on record and may be taken into account should any future application for a licence to broadcast be received from the Licensee.