broadcasting

We are responsible for the framework for broadcasting in the UK.

We work closely with the regulators broadcasting industry, viewers and listeners to increase viewer choice, ensure healthy competition and maintain programme standards and quality.

We do not get involved in complaints about individual programmes or schedules, these are handled by independent regulators. Read our Programme Standards page for more details.

We look after policy on the allocation of frequencies for television and radio broadcasting, together with reception matters, in liaison with the Office of Communications (Ofcom), which has overall control of the management of frequencies.

We review the Royal Charter which governs the BBC and set the licence fee. Read our BBC and other public broadcasting page for more details.

We have confirmed the timetable for switching to digital television and formed the Digital Television Switchover Programme.

What's New

We have announced the launch of a new taskforce to discuss the future of digital radio [22 November 2007]

DCMS commissioned BMG Research - Residential care and nursing homes: readiness for Digital Switchover [23 October 2007]

The Digital Switchover (Disclosure of Information) Act 2007 has received Royal Assent. [18 June 2007]

Websites of interest

Office of Communications

The BBC Charter Review

Related information

Estimated total revenue from the sale of UK TV programmes internationally was £632 million in 2005, an increase of 21% on 2004.

More than 80% of UK homes now have digital television on their main set.

73% of children aged 8-15 have a TV in their bedroom, 64% have access to the Internet at home.

71% of children aged 8-11 and 85% aged 12-15 listen to the radio.
Source: Ofcom, "Media literacy audit", March 2006

The television licence fee is £135.50 for a colour licence, or £45.50 for black and white.

The BBC also received £459 million from the Department for Work & Pensions for free television licences issued to people aged 75 or over.

There are more than 800 licences for commercial television services in the UK.

There are over 350 analogue and digital radio stations in the UK. This includes both national and local services, but not restricted service licences.