ICSTIS, the British premium rate services regulator, has today proposed new regulations for Call TV quiz shows following an extensive review of the sector. ICSTIS’ proposals include making viewers aware of their actual chances of being put through to the studio and giving participants cumulative call cost warnings after each £10 they spend.

Announcing the proposals, ICSTIS Chairman Sir Alistair Graham said: “As the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee noted in their recently-published report, Call TV quiz shows are a new form of television entertainment that many people thoroughly enjoy. However, the sector cannot afford to be eroded by consumer mistrust. If the sector is to flourish, Call TV quiz shows
must enjoy widespread consumer confidence.

Our review did not find evidence of unlawful practices but we did uncover evidence which clearly highlighted the need for consumers to be given more information about the cost of taking part and the element of chance involved. We are therefore proposing to refine our rules to ensure greater transparency for consumers and to further encourage best practice in the sector.”

ICSTIS’ review looked at the effectiveness of existing consumer protection measures, evidence from complainants, the recording and monitoring of programme content, analysis of telephone traffic data and independent consumer research. ICSTIS also held individual meetings with broadcasters, service providers, telephone companies, consumer bodies and fellow regulators.

Full details of ICSTIS’ findings and its proposals can be accessed here. Consultation on the proposals runs until 12 March 2007.

Posted on January 30th, 2007 by lbraum
Filed under: UK, all