Ofcom has launched a consultation on a proposed change to its Broadcasting Code which would make it clearer that politicians cannot present news content on any type of programme.
Under the new proposal, politicians would not be allowed to act as newsreaders, news interviewers or reporters unless there is exceptional editorial justification.
The change follows a High Court ruling involving GB News and Ofcom which clarified that a programme cannot be both a news and current affairs programme at the same time.
The existing rule only applies to news programmes, but the updated version would apply to all programmes containing news segments, regardless of format.
Ofcom said the change reflects how news and current affairs content has become more blurred, and how politicians are now more commonly used to present broadcast programmes.
The new guidance is intended to support impartiality and accuracy in a media environment that has changed significantly in recent years.
The regulator said this helps maintain audience trust and ensures broadcasters continue to meet their obligations.
Responses to the consultation are open until 23rd June this year.