Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of introducing age restrictions on music played by radio stations.

There are rules in place to protect under-eighteens in relation to programme scheduling and content, as well as to protect the public generally in relation to harmful and / or offensive material. These are set out in the Broadcasting Code, which is published by Ofcom in its role as the independent regulator with responsibility for broadcast content and standards. Ofcom also publishes guidance to broadcasters in relation to offensive language, including with regard to lyrics in music tracks, and takes enforcement action, where appropriate, to deal with breaches.

The Government has no plans to introduce additional regulatory burdens on radio stations.