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<p>The Government recognises the importance of subtitling and supports television
being accessible to all. Under the Communications Act 2003 and Broadcasting Acts of
1990 and 1996, broadcasters are already required to meet targets for access services
- including subtitling. Statutory targets are set by Ofcom which include five and
ten year targets for licensed television services. Ofcom’s<a href="https://www.ofcom.org.uk/tv-radio-and-on-demand/broadcast-codes/tv-access-services"
target="_blank"> Code on Television Access Services</a> sets out these obligations
and provides guidance and best practice on subtitling for broadcasters.</p><p>The
regulator Ofcom assesses which broadcasters - including new channels - have a requirement
to provide access services and publishes a list on their website annually, according
to principles set out in their Code. Some broadcasters already provide television
access services such as subtitling on a voluntary basis, and we would encourage broadcasters
to continue to do so where possible.</p><p>The Government is committed to legislate
to bring in minimum levels of subtitling, audio description, and signing on video-on-demand
services and is currently working with Ofcom to develop a legislative framework for
these requirements that is clear and fit for purpose. We intend to legislate when
time allows and will set out a timetable for this in due course.</p>
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