Netflix and other streamers will be regulated by the UK in accordance with broadcasters

Britain said streaming platforms including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Disney+ will be required to follow the same content and accessibility rules as traditional broadcasters such as the BBC.

The government said two-thirds of UK households now subscribe to at least one major streaming service, with 85% of people using an on-demand platform each month, compared with 67% who watch live television.

Under the new measures, streaming services with more than 500,000 UK users will fall under the scope of Ofcom’s broadcasting code. The rules require that news be reported accurately and impartially and that audiences are protected from harmful or offensive material.

The regulations will also mandate accessibility provisions such as subtitles and other support services for viewers with disabilities. Ofcom will have the authority to investigate breaches of the code and take enforcement action where necessary, aligning oversight of major streaming platforms with that applied to traditional broadcasters.