Ofcom's main objectives are to:
- Promote competition in the communications industries.
- Protect the interests of consumers.
- Ensure that the UK's communications infrastructure is developed in a way that benefits the public.
In relation to the BBC, Ofcom has a number of specific duties and responsibilities, including:
- Approving the BBC's Charter and Agreement.
- Monitoring the BBC's compliance with its Charter and Agreement.
- Investigating complaints about the BBC's programmes or services.
- Imposing sanctions on the BBC if it breaches its Charter or Agreement.
The BBC Charter is a document that sets out the BBC's mission and objectives, as well as its governance and funding arrangements. It is agreed between the BBC and the Government, and it is approved by Parliament.
The BBC Agreement is a document that contains detailed terms and conditions for the BBC's operation. It is negotiated between the BBC and the Government, and it is also approved by Parliament.
Ofcom monitors the BBC's Charter and Agreement, as well as its compliance with any obligations imposed by Ofcom. Ofcom also investigates complaints about the BBC's programmes or services, and it can impose sanctions on the BBC if it breaches its Charter or Agreement.