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Ofcom is responsible to the UK parliament, which sets out its duties through primary legislation and ministerial directive.

Its main decision-making body is the Board, which provides strategic direction for the organisation. There are a number of other Boards and Committees that oversee its work nationwide and in the devolved nations.

The Ofcom Board is appointed by the Secretary of State for the Department of Culture, Media and Sport. In 2022, Conservative peer and former BBC Chair Lord Grade of Yarmouth, was appointed as Ofcom Chair. His appointment runs for 4 years from 1 May 2022 to 30 April 2026.

Ofcom states that it is independent, and funded by fees paid by the companies it regulates.

Ofcom maintains consistent standards through the Broadcasting Code. This sets out rules and guidance that all broadcast content on television and radio must follow.