Draft Annual Plan 2010/11

Summary

One-page overview

The annual plan sets out Ofcom's future work programme to further the interests of citizens and consumers

1.1 Ofcom's draft annual plan sets out our proposed work programme for the twelve months from 1 April 2010 to 31 March 2011.

1.2 The 2003 Communications Act gave Ofcom primary duties to further the interests of citizens in relation to communications matters and to further the interests of consumers in relevant markets, where appropriate by promoting competition.

1.3 In order to fulfil these duties, we have five main objectives that inform all of our work and activities. These are to:

We have set clear priorities for the year ahead, to ensure that we continue to deliver against these objectives

1.4 The communications sector plays a vital economic and cultural role in the UK, whilst experiencing rapid change from the growth of digital media. Ofcom's work should seek to ensure that the sector continues to deliver positive outcomes for consumers and citizens throughout the country.

1.5 Based on our analysis of market developments and our progress against our current annual plan, we have identified nine priority areas of work for the year ahead.

1.6 In addition to these priorities we also have a number of ongoing work areas that will continue into next year.

1.7 We encourage anyone with an interest in Ofcom's work to respond to this consultation by 17 February 2010. Our final annual plan for 2010/11 will be published the start of our next financial year.