We met with Ofcom

Today we had discussions with Ofcom (Ofcomwatch) . We meet regularly with them to discuss issues of concern. Top of the bill was the news review and ITV's commitment to regional news. Coming after M Grade's recent speech about a reduced regional news structure, we wanted to know where Ofcom stood. One of the problems of the current set up, is that although Ofcom consult over everything in the known universe (and much that is not), when it comes to varying the regional licences, they have been known to deal-or-no-deal behind closed doors. On this occasion we were able to extract a commitment. If they are approached by ITV with plans to reduce news commitments prior to the end of the PSB review, Ofcom will 'not be minded' to agree any changes and if they are approached we will be told and consulted. In the current free-market climate this represents progress.

An article from earlier this year on Keith McMahon's blog is worth a look, her refers to one M Grade, is this be the same man who told viewers to develop a sense of humour in relation to phone quizzes that weren't quite what they seem?