Ofcom says TV ad breaks are longer and more frequent because broadcasters feel a drop in revenue | Business newsletter

TV ad breaks could be longer and more frequent as part of a review of UK broadcast rules.

Regulator, Ofcom has said market developments, including the availability of streaming services, mean it will consider an overhaul of advertising regulations.

Currently, public broadcast channels are limited to an average of seven minutes of advertising per hour of the day, while private channels are allowed nine minutes of advertising and an additional three minutes of telemarketing.

Ofcom says that while the expanded entertainment selection is “generally positive” for audiences, it “puts pressure on broadcasters, squeezes revenue and makes it difficult for them to maintain current offers.” .

An Ofcom spokesman said: “We are looking at a range of options, but before forming any plans we will listen to different views and consider what viewers are transmitting. say picture.

“We need to strike the right balance between protecting our viewers’ interests and maintaining our traditional broadcasters, including helping them compete with US streaming platforms. .”

Ofcom said it expected to provide more details on the potential changes later in the summer.