UK consults on co-regulatory scheme for Internet video

Ofcom has just closed its consultation on the implementation of the 2007 Audiovisual Media Services Directive.

It intends to regulate via its co-regulatory bodies, the Advertising Standards Authority and Association of Video on Demand (ATVOD), the latter formerly a self-regulatory body established as a front to persuade the European Commission that it didn't need legislation in this area.

Since AVMS establishes that co-regulation is needed, ATVOD has had to reform itself by the end of this year into a formal co-regulatory body, meaning Ofcom has audit functions and backstop powers to take over if ATVOD fails to regulate properly.

The one exception is the BBC iPlayer, which will have separate arrangements reflecting the unique position of BBC public services.