Icstis to enhance stakeholder relationships

Icstis, the premium rate phone services regulator, is this week launching a consultation in a bid to enhance its relationship with stakeholders. The move comes as the regulator seeks to bolster its reputation amid a raft of complaints and investigations into television and commercial radio phone line competitions.

Icstis has previously admitted that it must be seen to be more proactive. Following a crisis meeting with broadcasters last month, chief executive George Kidd (left) said the regulator had been “modest or uncertain” about its role (MW March 15).

It has now set out its responsibilities along with a range of measures to improve communication with stakeholders, who include media regulator Ofcom, consumers and legislators.

Icstis chairman Sir Alistair Graham says: “For the first time, we articulate our views about how and why we engage with a variety of stakeholders and why this is absolutely vital to delivering this agenda and our remit.”

Last week, the regulator announced a series of measures aimed at giving viewers a better understanding of their chances of getting through to quiz programmes and more information about the cost of calling. The new rules will come into force in three weeks in a revised Statement of Expectations for Call TV Quiz Services.