Statement

Summary

1.1 In July 2008, we published a discussion document setting out Ofcoms role in furthering the interests of citizens. This statement provides a summary of responses to that discussion and an outline of steps Ofcom will take to ensure a more transparent and consistent approach to furthering the interests of citizens.

1.2 Although in practice our thinking has been driven by a citizen focus since Ofcoms inception, the absence of a clear explanation of how the furthering of citizen interests is incorporated into our decision-making has led some stakeholders to question our commitment to the needs of citizens.

1.3 Our approach, as set out in the July 2008 discussion document, is based upon a consideration of what is involved in performing the roles of citizen and consumer. As consumers, we participate in the marketplace, buying or using goods and services. In short, we focus primarily on what is good for ourselves as private individuals or businesses. Whereas, as citizens, we participate in society, which includes the marketplace, but also extends far beyond it. Citizens are free to exchange goods and services, but can additionally be impacted by a whole range of social, cultural and political activities that are not the subject of commercial contracts.

1.4 Most respondents acknowledged the tension we highlighted, which can exist between the interests of consumers and those of citizens, and the context-specific nature of the task we face. Where tensions exist between citizens and consumers interests we have a duty to expose those tensions in order that we can be held accountable for how we reach a resolution. We believe that the framework set out in the discussion document represents a pragmatic approach which can be applied to most situations where Ofcom has to identify the interests of citizens when appraising policy options, and resolve any tensions which exist.

1.5 We committed, in the discussion document, to incorporate the approach we have taken to furthering citizens interests into revised internal guidelines, used by managers when appraising policy options. However, we now propose to go further by reviewing also the role of discrete toolkits, which currently cover issues such as diversity and equality, as well as citizen and consumer interests, with the aim of developing a single guide to policy appraisal for Ofcom managers. Responses to the discussion document will also be reflected in this revision.

1.6 Respondents helpfully also drew our attention to a number of areas where an increased awareness of the impact of policy on the interests of citizens was important, for example in the promotion of next generation access. We have passed these suggestions to colleagues who are leading in the relevant areas.