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Manx Radio breached licence condition over spoken content levels
Overview
The Isle of Man's national radio station, Manx Radio, breached its licence conditions by failing to broadcast the required amount of spoken content. The Communications and Utilities Regulatory Authority found that speech output averaged 35.75% when monitored, falling short of the 40% target due to the inclusion of its music-heavy sister station, Manx Radio Gold, on the AM frequency.
Key points
- Manx Radio is required to meet a 40% target for spoken content under its licence conditions.
- A regulatory inquiry found that combined AM and speech output averaged 35.75% during monitoring in April and May.
- The investigation was launched in May following concerns regarding the impact of broadcasting Manx Radio Gold on the AM frequency.
- The regulator concluded a fine or licence revocation would be disproportionate and instead proposed a direction to curtail Manx Radio Gold on the AM service to ensure the 40% speech target is met.