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Rules on Call TV Quiz Shows Implemented by ICSTIS | Media | Legality
Rules on Call TV Quiz Shows Implemented by ICSTIS
04 May 2007 07:49 AM Filed in:
Media
The ICSTIS Code of Practice for premium
rate call services has been amended by the issue of a
revised ICSTIS Statement of Expectations. The Statement sets out ICSTIS'
interpretation of the Code of Practice. The revised Statement
introduces three new rules. Compliance with the new rules is
mandatory.
In summary, the Statement of Expectations provides that:
Viewers must be able to assess their chances of getting through to air.
This is to be achieved by requiring Call TV Quiz services to show the total number of callers in the preceding 15 minute period. This infomration must be updated at least every 10 minutes.
Viewers must be provided with clear pricing information.
The price of calls must be read out by a presenter or voice-over at least every 10 minutes. Existing rules required only that call costs were provided on-screen, and as part of the introductory message on the phone lines themselves.
Viewers must be warned as to the cost of calls made.
Viewers must be warned every time they spend £10 in a day. The warning must make clear the number of calls, the cost of each chargeable call and that this may vary across different networks.
Legality Comments
The new rules will go some way to restoring trust and confidence in premium rate Quiz TV shows. This follows concerns expressed by MPs on the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee in its report of 25 January 2007.
In summary, the Statement of Expectations provides that:
Viewers must be able to assess their chances of getting through to air.
This is to be achieved by requiring Call TV Quiz services to show the total number of callers in the preceding 15 minute period. This infomration must be updated at least every 10 minutes.
Viewers must be provided with clear pricing information.
The price of calls must be read out by a presenter or voice-over at least every 10 minutes. Existing rules required only that call costs were provided on-screen, and as part of the introductory message on the phone lines themselves.
Viewers must be warned as to the cost of calls made.
Viewers must be warned every time they spend £10 in a day. The warning must make clear the number of calls, the cost of each chargeable call and that this may vary across different networks.
Legality Comments
The new rules will go some way to restoring trust and confidence in premium rate Quiz TV shows. This follows concerns expressed by MPs on the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee in its report of 25 January 2007.
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