Stakeholders

Ofcom seeks people's views on a very broad range of policies; at any one time we will have a number of consultations open for comment. This area of our website explains how to find a particular consultation - and how to respond to our consultation teams.

Ofcom regularly carries out research into the markets we regulate. This includes the Communications Market Report, our annual statistical survey of developments in the communications sector, and our annual reports into the consumer experience. Ofcom’s research also helps keep us and others informed on new technology developments and the impact that they might have on the sectors that we regulate.

When problems occur Ofcom has the powers to step in and take action for the benefit of citizens and consumers. This can involve encouraging competition or resolving regulatory disputes between communications providers. We also enforce consumer protection law, protect and manage the radio spectrum, and ensure viewers and listeners are protected from offensive and harmful material and treated fairly.

The Freedom of Information Act 2000 (the Act) establishes a general right of access to all types of recorded information held by public authorities.

Ofcom's activities and those of the companies it regulates are increasingly influenced by international developments.

Ofcom’s pioneering broadband speed research provided consumers with the first real picture of UK internet speeds. Find out more about that research, as well our work to encourage the rollout of super-fast broadband and measures to tackle online copyright infringement.

On 1 October 2011, Ofcom took over regulation of the UK’s postal services from the previous regulator Postcomm. Ofcom is responsible for safeguarding the universal postal service which includes a six day per week, one price goes anywhere postal service throughout the UK. This section contains all of Ofcom’s publications on post and archived documents from Postcomm.

Ofcom is responsible for managing civilian use of the radio spectrum. Our work involves releasing spectrum for new uses as well as developing policies to ensure that the spectrum is used efficiently.

Ofcom is committed to a thriving telecoms sector where companies can compete fairly and businesses and customers benefit from the choice of a broad range of services. This section is dedicated to information and research for the telecoms industry.