Abstract

This paper analyses the processes by which a UK-based coalition of the government, the media regulator Ofcom, and industry groups organised a sustained lobbying campaign to challenge the proposal to extend the scope of the revised Television Without Frontiers (TVWF) directive to cover ‘non linear’ services (audiovisual services delivered over the internet or mobile phone.). It describes how the coalition mobilised support at national, European and international levels to secure changes in the draft Audiovisual Media Services (AMS) and analyses the reasons why the UKbased coalition was successful in achieving its objectives. The study also integrates material on the role of interest groups which were concerned about the proposed changes in the TVWF directive and works on the EU policy making process.

Keywords: European Union, Interest Groups, UK Media Policy

How to Cite:

Williams, G., (2017) “From Isolation to Consensus: The UK’s Role in the Revision Process of the Television Without Frontiers Directive”, Westminster Papers in Communication and Culture 4(3), 26-45. doi: https://doi.org/10.16997/wpcc.96