Ofcom fines Believe TV


UK communications regulator Ofcom has fined British thematic faith healing channel Believe TV £25,000 (€30,000) for a series of regulatory violations.

The body has fined the broadcaster, which is operated by The Light Academy, for a number of breaches between December 2010 and February 2011 related to claims made by televangelists, pastors and religious leaders including one preaching about the healing power of his miracle olive oil soap.

“Given that the content was also soliciting a response from viewers and such individuals experiencing serious illnesses may be vulnerable to the healing claims being made, Ofcom found there was a material risk that susceptible members of the audience may be exploited by the material broadcast on Believe TV,” noted Ofcom.