Ofcom’s duty is to regulate broadcasting on behalf of UK citizens. That appears to be under threat, both from internal forces and potentially from its next chair.
Leaks in the press about the prime minister’s preferred candidates for two of the most senior roles in British broadcasting are a deliberate and dangerous tactic.
Broadcasters snubbing the likes of Nicola Sturgeon and Jo Swinson in favour of head-to-head debates with the two big party leaders just serves to stoke political tensions.
This deal needs to be seen for what it is: a massive step towards dominance of the UK media which could influence public opinion and squeeze out competition.
The Australian media policy omelette cannot simply be unscrambled. But forward-thinking diversity rules could help prevent further concentration of media ownership.
The Turnbull government is engaged in a media reform process that is all about the sideshow – not forward-thinking policy with the public interest in mind.
Ever since BT was privatised there have been calls to break it up. But with the steps Ofcom has already taken, it’s not clear there’s any benefit for consumers.