Developments in the Regulation of Broadcasting Advertising

Advertising expenditure continues to rise in the UK with growth of 2.4% to £17.2 billion in 2003 and estimates of a rise of 4.2% this year (source: Advertising Association). The traditional methods of marketing and advertising have been transformed by the new forms of media brought about by the digital revolution. The landscape of communication has changed so that traditional distinctions between broadcast, outdoor, radio and print based advertising no longer appear as relevant as they once did. The challenges brought about by the digital revolution and the convergence of media have been addressed by changes to the regulatory bodies, in particular with the introduction of Ofcom and the withdrawal of the legacy regulators such as the Independent Television Commission (ITC) and the Radio Authority (RA).