U.K. — The UK government released plans to mandate that digital platforms, including YouTube and TikTok, algorithmically increase the promotion of content from established broadcasters and media companies. The government published a consultation on the issue on Tuesday.

Content from the BBC, ITV, and Channel 4 would be subject to rules necessitating greater algorithmic promotion on these digital platforms. Ministers stated that online misinformation risks becoming "existential for our democracy." Special rules are under consideration for periods of social unrest or crisis, and UK public service broadcasters have advocated for safeguards for their content to protect the "shared social fabric of the UK."

The government consultation indicated that increased prominence for news coverage could also extend to local and national newspapers, which the consultation labels as "trustworthy providers." Media minister Ian Murray said he hoped large technology companies would collaborate with the government to implement new prominence rules. He stated that legislation could be used if necessary, adding, "The ball is in their court." Murray described the shift towards online platforms as "existential for media, but also existential for our democracy" and cited misinformation detected during the Makerfield byelection as evidence of this risk.

David Wheeldon, senior director of government affairs and public policy for YouTube, Europe, said, "The UK's creator economy is a global success story because of one simple idea: on YouTube, viewers decide what they want to watch." Wheeldon added, "Prominence rules seek to distort that – forcing YouTube to prioritise government-picked channels over whatever viewers actually came to watch." Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said, "TV remains at the heart of our society." She also said, "It is key to supporting social cohesion and is a cornerstone of our democracy, which is why, as the technology underpinning it changes, we are making sure it is protected for generations to come." The government's green paper includes proposals to ensure streaming and catch-up rights to major sporting events like the World Cup, Olympics, and Wimbledon remain accessible without a paywall. The paper also includes options for discontinuing terrestrial signals in favor of digital television delivered via internet connections, with this switchover possibly occurring as early as 2034, or being delayed until 2044.