Ofcom criticises ITV networking delays

Ofcom has said it is "very concerned" about delays in formalising changes to the way the ITV Network operates.

The 15 regional Channel 3 licenses are currently controlled by ITV, SMG, Ulster Television and Channel Television. The rules on how they work together are recorded in the ITV Network Arrangements and are reviewed by the regulator every year.

In 2005 and 2006 it ordered a series of alterations including new rules about how the companies deal with independent producers and how costs are divided between the network members.

The ITV Network Centre Code of Practice was due to be updated based on Ofcom's latest guidance on commissioning from indies.

In the results of its 2007 review, released this week, the regulator said the earliest changes had still not been formalised by the licencees, and it is still waiting for a revised Code of Practice.

"We remain very concerned by the fact that the regional C3 licensees have still not been able to come forward with the revised documentation which would complete the process of implementing the recommendations of the 2005 Review," said the latest review.

"Given the outstanding issues in implementing the recommendations of the 2005 and 2006 Review, we have not been in a position to evaluate how those changes have bedded down as we would have hoped. It is important therefore that these actions are completed without further delay to avoid the need for us to consider what further action may have to be taken."

Ofcom said it was likely the arrangements needed to be updated again for numerous reasons including the effects of multi-platform broadcasting on rights issues, and planned licence changes to stop shows misleading viewers and running improper phone-ins.