Commercial radio welcomes passing of Media Bill

The commercial radio sector has welcomed the successful passing of the Media Bill in parliament on Thursday 23rd May as part of the legislative “wash-up” process before the dissolution of parliament ahead of the general election.

The Media Bill will now receive Royal Assent later today (24th May) and formally pass into law as the Media Act 2024.

Radiocentre CEO Matt Payton said:

“The approval of a new Media Bill marks a seminal moment in the development of UK radio.

Radio’s unique value will now be recognised formally in law, with powers to ensure it remains freely available and accessible on voice activated platforms like smart speakers. In addition, outdated commercial radio regulation will be removed, while local news provision will be secured for the future.

These world-leading measures have taken several years to come to fruition, including detailed scrutiny in parliament culminating in the ‘wash up’. This would simply not have happened without the steadfast support of politicians from all parties, backed up by the hard work of government and Ofcom officials, along with the unprecedented collaboration and cooperation shown by the whole radio industry.

We are delighted with this outcome and thank everyone involved.”