Ofcom

The ITC Programme Code sets out the editorial standards which audiences are entitled
to expect from commercial television services in the UK. It aims to ensure that
requirements covering programme content which Parliament stipulated in the 1990
and 1996 Broadcasting Acts are met, while allowing for and encouraging creativity,
development and innovation.All commercial television operators in the UK have to have a licence from the ITC.A condition of every licence is compliance with the Programme Code. The Code applies to all licensed programme services, not just the free to air channels. It also covers certain foreign satellite programmes included in local delivery services. In some cases, the Code makes different provision for different types of service. (A Code for Text Services is published separately.)

It is the responsibility of the licence holders to ensure their programmes and services
operate within the framework of the Code. They should have in place procedures for
ensuring that programme makers can seek guidance on the Code within the company
at a senior level. The ITC itself monitors programme output on transmission and also
receives complaints from members of the public. The ITC’s programme of research
and analysis also tracks changing public expectations and responses to help with the
regulatory work of interpreting and applying the Code.
Where the Code has been breached, the ITC may use sanctions against licence
holders, including financial penalties, to support the Code and the standards audiences can expect.

Licensees are obliged to report to the ITC on how they deal with complaints from the public which they receive directly themselves. Provision of
effective consumer services in respect of complaints from the public about content is
also a condition of all ITC licences. Where a complaint is about a matter of substance relating to the Broadcasting Act, the complainant must always be informed of other avenues available to pursue the matter. The ITC takes all complaints seriously and, where it feels a complaint to be justified, will take action with the licensee concerned.