Ofcom launch announcement

35/03

5 March 2003

Ofcom launch announcement

Ofcom has made an announcement today about its launch date. A copy of its press release is attached for your information.
ENDS

NOTE TO EDITORS

The Radio Authority is responsible for licensing and regulating Independent Radio in accordance with the statutory requirements of the Broadcasting Acts 1990 and 1996. It plans frequencies, awards licences, regulates programming and advertising, and plays an active role in the discussion and formulation of policies which affect the Independent Radio industry and its listeners.

Ofcom ready to launch in December, 2003

Ofcom will be up and running and ready to take on its full range of responsibilities by mid-December, it was announced today, Wednesday, March 5.

Stephen Carter, CEO of Ofcom, has informed all staff across the 5 regulators that he expects everyone in London who is joining Ofcom, including those who will still be working for the current regulators, to be accommodated in Riverside House, Ofcom’s HQ, by Monday 15^th December.

"When Ofcom is fully formed our statutory responsibilities will include the importance of creating and promoting a dynamic communications market, underpinned by limited and effective intervention through a constructive and mutually respectful relationship with stakeholders" said Stephen Carter.

"Ofcom will also be a "reach out" regulator that embraces consumer protection through the promotion of effective competition and choice, whilst being informed by modern citizenship."

He said the creation of Ofcom provided an opportunity to create a new, leaner, effective and important organisation in UK plc. Now there was a real target to aim for.

The timetable for the transfer of powers is being discussed by Ofcom with the Government and it is expected that full powers would vest with Ofcom by the end of the year – subject to the passage of the of the Communications Bill through Parliament.

The Rt Hon Patricia Hewitt, Secretary of State for Trade and Industry said: "This is excellent news. The careful advance planning will ensure that everything is lined up for a smooth transition to Ofcom, once the powers are granted. This clear target date will provide a focus for all organisations involved to move seamlessly into the new converged regime."

The Rt Hon Tessa Jowell, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport said: "We are pleased that Ofcom is making such good progress with their preparations. This will ensure that our commitment to have the new regulator up and running by the end of 2003 will be achieved."
Notes to Editors:

Ofcom will replace The Independent Television Commission (ITC); The Broadcasting Standards Commission (BSC); The Office of Telecommunications (Oftel); The Radiocommunications Agency and The Radio Authority.

Ofcom was formally set up through paving legislation, The Office of Communications Act 2002, which received Royal Assent in March.

The Communications Bill, which is likely to become an Act in the summer of this year, will confer regulatory powers on Ofcom which will be operational by the end of the year.

Ofcom will be a light handed regulator where possible but tough when necessary. The decisions it takes will be based on strong evidence and powerful analysis. It will be accountable and transparent and in touch with citizens and consumers.

Contact:
Press enquiries:
Tel: 020 7887 4292 / 020 7887 4290
Out of hours tel: 07770 375283
Public enquiries:
Tel: 020 7887 4294

Revised: March 05, 2003