Ofcom examines possibility of internet regulation
Content on TV and the internet is set to move closer as the quality of video streaming technology improves, according to the UK's communications watchdog.
Ofcom claims that the blurring of boundaries between TV and the internet raises questions of regulation.
At a debate in Westminster, Ofcom chairman Lord Currie told MPs that protecting audiences would remain the main focus of the regulator and refused to rule out the possibility of internet regulation, BBC News reports.
At the debate, organised by the Internet Service Providers' Association (ISPA), he said: "The challenge will arise when boundaries between TV and the internet truly blur and then there is a balance to be struck between protecting consumers and allowing them to assess the risks themselves."
Internet service providers are becoming increasingly concerned that Ofcom intends to start regulating the industry, following a series of speeches in recent months.
Studies suggest that as many as eight million households in the UK will have adopted broadband by the end of 2005 and an increasing number of companies are streaming video content on the web.
UK phone giant BT has already set up an entertainment division to create and distribute content that could come from sources such as BSkyB, ITV and the BBC, while the BBC plans to launch an interactive media player which will enable viewers to download programmes such as EastEnders and Top Gear.
Richard Ayers, portal director at Tiscali, said there was little point trying to regulate the internet because it would be impossible.
28 January 2005
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