03-06-2011, 03:29
An example of dual standards is that while broadcasters have to abide by strict timescales, Ofcom do not. They only aim to do so.
A 2 bit broacaster faced with staff turnover, the VAT inspector and annual holidays has to drop everything to complete a comprehensive and legally watertight response, trawling through the massive and incomprehensible "rulebook" (Rule, Guidelines, previous Bulletins, Sanctions) in 20 days. The massive well staffed organisation the Ofcom is can choose what to prioritise, is large enough for demand to average out and can move resources around, but they get longer if they feel like it, and dont even have to explain why or ask permision from a higher authority.
Also while complaints should normally be submitted in so many days of the broadcast, Ofcom will consider older ones if it feels like it. Again, no need to explain why, invoke exceptional public interest due to the serious nature, or get special permission. They can just do it if they feel like it.
By contrast you can be photographed by Lord Litchfield driving past a Traffic Warden Training School at double the speed limit, and the courts cannot touch you if the speeding ticket is not issued in 30 days.
A 2 bit broacaster faced with staff turnover, the VAT inspector and annual holidays has to drop everything to complete a comprehensive and legally watertight response, trawling through the massive and incomprehensible "rulebook" (Rule, Guidelines, previous Bulletins, Sanctions) in 20 days. The massive well staffed organisation the Ofcom is can choose what to prioritise, is large enough for demand to average out and can move resources around, but they get longer if they feel like it, and dont even have to explain why or ask permision from a higher authority.
Also while complaints should normally be submitted in so many days of the broadcast, Ofcom will consider older ones if it feels like it. Again, no need to explain why, invoke exceptional public interest due to the serious nature, or get special permission. They can just do it if they feel like it.
By contrast you can be photographed by Lord Litchfield driving past a Traffic Warden Training School at double the speed limit, and the courts cannot touch you if the speeding ticket is not issued in 30 days.