Indy producers code approval welcomed

The BBC has welcomed the decision by communications super-regulator Ofcom to green-light the codes of practice used by public service broadcasters when commissioning programmes from independent producers.

The codes, which were drawn up by the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Five and GMTV, seek to create a new framework designed to provide independent producers with more opportunities to retain rights in the programmes that they produce.

Detailed negotiations are now underway on the specifics within the framework. Final agreement is expected by the end of March, but the BBC says that all new commissions from independent producers from January 6 onwards will be dealt with under the new code.

Sara Geater, the BBC's director of rights and business affairs, said:

"We very much welcome Ofcom's approval of our Code. We hope this will be a significant development in our relations with indpendent production companies and it is one which we have worked very hard to achieve."