CLARITY IN TELEVISION PHONE-IN COMPETITIONS AND VOTING

That this House supports the action taken by Ofcom to ensure third party verification and auditing of all premium rate services (PRS) voting and competitions and the changing of licence conditions to make clear that broadcasters are fully responsible for all forms of contact with the public, including via PRS mechanisms; and encourages Ofcom to require broadcasters to be completely transparent by showing live, the running totals of votes cast for each competitor and, in the case of phone-in competitions to require broadcasters to indicate the full financial implications for the public by publishing the total income and value of the prizes given in the immediate previous similar competition so that those competing are given some guidance as to the likely odds they face.