Broadcasting Code Review - Section Three: Crime

Statement published 04|05|2016

Ofcom has published changes to the rules in Section Three of the Broadcasting Code, and accompanying guidance, to ensure they are as clear as possible for broadcasters.

Ofcom has a duty to review and revise the rules in the Broadcasting Code from time to time when appropriate.

Section Three of the Code relates to crime. It prohibits the broadcast of material likely to encourage or to incite the commission of crime, or to lead to disorder. It also helps to provide adequate protection for members of the public from the inclusion in services of harmful and/or offensive material.

Ofcom has updated the title of the Section from “Crime” to “Crime, Disorder, Hatred and Abuse” and introduced two additional rules to address content containing hate speech and abusive or derogatory treatment. Ofcom has also included notes and meanings to help explain the rules in this section of the Code and provide additional information for broadcasters on how they are applied.

The new rules come into effect at 10:00 on Monday 9 May 2016.

Review of Section Three of the Broadcasting Code - Statement (PDF, 193.9 KB)