Explanatory Notes

Communications Act 2003

2003 CHAPTER 21

17 July 2003

Commentary on Sections

Part 3: Television and Radio Services

Chapter 2: Regulatory Structure for Independent Television Services
Section 237: Penalties for contravention of licence condition or direction

533.If OFCOM are satisfied that a television licensable content service licence holder has breached a condition of that licence, or has not complied with a direction given by OFCOM, they may serve a notice on that person imposing a fine. The maximum fine is the greater of £250,000 or 5 per cent of qualifying revenue within the relevant period. OFCOM may not impose a fine unless they have first given the licence holder the chance to comment. If OFCOM serve a notice on a BBC company, they must send a copy of that notice, and of any representations received from the company, to the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State may vary the amount of the maximum fine by order.