Ofcom is acting as a one-stop shop for media regulation

It forms part of a series of measures outlined in the organisation's newly-published annual plan.

Ofcom also aims to help drive forward the switch from analogue to digital broadcasting in the UK via a programme of research and analysis.

It plans a "new approach" to the ITV licences and new digital licences for all public service broadcasting.

Replacement

Ofcom was launched on 29 December as a replacement for five media watchdogs including the Independent Television Commission and Broadcasting Standards Commission.

It was created to make the UK's media regulations more streamlined and less cumbersome, and a strategic review of public service broadcasting in television is already underway.

The new annual plan stresses the need for "suitable measures" to "support and protect" the interests of consumers - including help for those seeking redress.

Ofcom intends to ensure that broadcasters commission programmes from independent producers, and from programme-makers who focuse their efforts outside the Greater London area.

New codes or practice are planned for services such as subtitling and signing.