Broadcasters in the UK may soon be legally required to produce content that is “distinctively British”, according to Media Minister John Whittingdale.
Speaking at a Royal Television Society conference, Mr Whittingdale cited programmes such as the Great British Bake Off, Dr Who and Downton Abbey which had achieved global success while still reflecting “Britain and British values”.
Mr Whittingdale referred to an upcoming White Paper that is to include proposals to “expand the remit of public service broadcasters, so that it includes a requirement for them to produce ‘distinctively British’ content.”
He said the plans are designed to ensure broadcasters are producing programmes for British audiences primarily rather than “generic” offerings targeting global sales on streaming platforms.
Mr Whittingdale did concede that Britishness was a “difficult concept to measure. We will talk to Ofcom about how to make the obligation of Britishness work.”
Author
Gill Laing is a qualified Legal Researcher & Analyst with niche specialisms in Law, Tax, Human Resources, Immigration & Employment Law.
Gill is a Multiple Business Owner and the Managing Director of Prof Services - a Marketing Agency for the Professional Services Sector.
