UK to bring Netflix, Disney & Amazon Prime Video under new broadcasting rules

The UK government is set to enforce broadcast-level oversight on Netflix and other giant streamers, including Disney and Amazon Prime Video.

Under the new regulations, the streaming platforms would be obliged to follow the same rules on content and accessibility similar to traditional broadcasters such as BBC.

The streamers would be regulated by the British watchdog Ofcom. The purpose of bringing the services into the scope of Ofcom’s broadcasting code is to protect the vast audience from harmful content and ensure the seamless provision of accessibility services like subtitles.

In the case of any violation of the code and non-compliance, Ofcom will have the authority to launch a probe and take action against violators.

Streaming services with more than 500,000 UK-based users will have to follow these new standards, ensuring the factual reporting of the news and protecting people from offensive content.

According to the British government, two-thirds of households subscribe to at least one major streaming platform. Around 85 percent use on-demand service as compared to 67 percent who watch TV.