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Ofcom has sent a letter (published below) to all TV gambling channels and other interested stakeholders regarding a proposal to re-categorise TV gambling channels as teleshopping services.

The proposed changes are designed to increase and improve consumer protection, ensure a clear, consistent and robust regulatory framework, and align Ofcom policy with the broad definition of advertising set out in the Gambling Act 2005.

Stakeholders will have four weeks to respond to the proposal. The deadline for such responses is Wednesday 19 March.

Should you require more information on this proposal please contact Stephanie Brook on 0207 9813871 or by email at stephanie.brook@ofcom.org.uk

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Dear [Stakeholder]

In November 2007 I wrote to notify you of Ofcom’s intention to conduct a consultation on the status of TV gambling channels with a view to re-categorising them as teleshopping services. This decision was prompted by the introduction of the Gambling Act 2005 on 1 September 2007.

However given the highly specific nature and narrow scope of this policy proposal, we consider that the most appropriate and efficient way to deal with this matter is to engage directly with those stakeholders who may be affected.

To this end we are writing to all the current participants in this market and those who have expressed an interest in becoming involved in the near future, as well as the relevant regulatory bodies, to explain our policy proposal for converting all current editorial and future gambling services to teleshopping. Ofcom will also be announcing the policy proposal and publishing a copy of this letter on the Ofcom website.

Please find attached to this letter three documents. The first sets out our policy analysis, the second contains data on the financial implications of the policy change and the third provides the relevant sections of codes related to this area and further information on the complete codes.

We welcome all responses. The deadline for responses is Wednesday 19 March.

Yours sincerely

Stephanie Brook

• Supporting Documents [pdf]

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