The Culture Secretary claimed it was ‘vital’ that ‘regulated public service media is seen and heard’ by the British people
Labour could force social media platforms to promote “trusted and accurate” outlets like BBC News to help fight against “misinformation”.
Ministers are set to consult on whether social media platforms should be made to make access to “trusted” news sources easier for consumers – regardless of whether they want to read them.
The “Watch this Space: A new strategic direction for UK media” Green Paper published on Monday sets out plans to ensure social media companies and video-sharing platforms prioritise content from public service media (PSM), which includes the BBC, ITV and Channel 4.
The move would see mainstream media outlets pushed to the top of people’s social media feeds when they search for news stories.
According to research published by Ofcom last year, three in four young people aged 16-24 now use social media as their main way to access news.
Meanwhile, more than half of adults include social media to receive updates.
The Government has claimed the increased use of social media to access news may mean the public consumes “misinformation” – rather than state-approved “PSM”.
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The plans come amid a major overhaul to Britain’s public service broadcaster, which may see reforms to help providers attract audiences online.
Ministers are set to consult on whether social media platforms should be forced to make to make access to ‘trusted’ news sources easier
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Other proposals include a move to internet-based TV in either 2034 and 2044, and on-demand rights for key sporting events to be added to the Listed Events Regime, making access to Olympic events and World Cup coverage free.
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.
“As the media landscape moves further and further online, away from traditional broadcasting, we must act so that our world-leading TV sector continues to thrive and top quality UK content keeps being produced.
“TV remains at the heart of our society.
