Media Regulations

By Georgina Nelson

Truth & AccuracyViewers are entitled to expect that programmes are completely accurate and truthful and the audience must not be misled.

This applies to all types of programming, which includes; • Entertainment

programmes with factual elements.

• Portraying real events, whether in documentary, features, factual entertainment, drama or any other programme.

The viewer is entitled to take at face value, must respect truth and accuracy. Programmes must be honest, fair and accurate and must not mislead viewers.

PROTECTING UNDER 18s & HARM AND OFFENCE

Under 18s have to be protected from potentially harmful and offensive material. One of the main ways of achieving this is through the appropriate scheduling of programmes.

Programmes with anything to do with sex , drugs and violence is normally played after the watershed.

Offensive language e.g. “cunt”, “motherfucker”, “fuck” and more these words must never be used in programmes before the watershed.

In programmes most likely to be seen widely by under 18s at any time, alcohol, smoking and drugs should not be encouraged or glamorised unless there is editorial justification.

The watershed is 9 pm.

Secret Filming

Individuals must not be filmed or recorded secretly for programmes unless approved by the broadcaster in advance.

The maker of the programme must set out in writing their justification for covert filming/recording. It must satisfy the provisions of Section 8.13 of the Code.

Before any secret filming is undertaken, there are detailed guidelines you must follow.

The show Rogue Traders that is shown on Watchdog is legal even though they film undercover and exposing rip off merchants for years.

Fairness & Privacy

Must avoid the unfair treatment of individuals or organisations in programmes.

If the programme you’re making involves criticising or making any damaging allegation about any living individual or organisation, seek advice from your programme lawyer.

Any significant infringement of privacy of an individual or organisation, in the making or broadcast of a programme, must be warranted by the public interest.

Copyright• All material must be properly cleared

for use within programmes and this is the responsibility of producers. Wherever programme-makers wish to rely on one of the statutory defences to copyright infringement e.g. fair dealing or incidental inclusion, they must seek advice from the programme lawyer at an early stage.