The UK government is proposing new rules to ensure trusted news sources are easier to find on social media and video sharing platforms.
This move comes as Ofcom data shows three-quarters of young people aged 16 to 24 now access news primarily through social media, with more than half of adults also using these platforms for updates.
The shift to digital news consumption has increased the risk of mis- and disinformation, as algorithms and artificial intelligence can prioritise less reliable content over established sources.
A Green Paper published today outlines options to require platforms to give greater prominence to news from public service media, including the BBC, ITV, STV, Channel 4, S4C and Channel 5, as well as other trustworthy providers.
The proposals could see national and local news publishers appearing higher in social media feeds when users search for news, particularly during periods of social unrest or crisis.
The government is also considering reforms to the public service media system to give broadcasters more flexibility and allow them to adapt to new technologies and changing viewing habits.
Options include designating other broadcasters and YouTube channels as public service media providers in the future.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: “It is vital that we make sure that people have better access to trusted and accurate news and that our regulated public service media is seen and heard in the fierce battle against mis and disinformation.”
The Green Paper also proposes adding on-demand rights for major sporting events to the Listed Events Regime, ensuring free access to events such as the World Cup and Olympics on digital and online platforms.
The government is consulting on two possible timelines for a managed transition to internet-based TV services, either in 2034 or 2044, with a commitment to support those affected by the changes.
Carolyn McCall, Chief Executive at ITV, welcomed the Green Paper, saying it would help public service broadcasters continue to serve the public interest through trusted, high quality, easily accessible content.
The consultation will also consider new duties for public service media providers to deliver and report on media literacy activities, aiming to help people of all ages critically assess online content.
Azzurra Moores, Associate Director at Demos, said: “Extending prominence requirements to social media platforms will be a critical step towards strengthening our information environment and building democratic resilience.”
Responses to the consultation will inform the final decision on the preferred timeline for the transition to internet-based TV, which the government intends to announce later this year.
