Netflix could potentially be compelled to proactively remove any content deemed "harmful" from its platform in the UK, or else face substantial fines. As part of the UK government's Media Bill, new regulations for streaming services are being proposed, which would subject them to oversight by media regulator Ofcom, similar to traditional broadcasters. In case of any content violations, streaming services could be fined up to £250,000 ($310,000) as per the proposed bill.

To adhere to the guidelines and avoid breaching them, Netflix may be required to assess its titles for impartiality in relation to "current public policy" and in the context of "political or industrial controversy." Consequently, Netflix has suggested that it might need to continuously review its content and remove anything deemed harmful. Netflix emphasized that its diverse content library, which offers a wide range of choices to British viewers, could potentially pose compliance risks if subjected to Ofcom's jurisdiction. In a statement, Netflix stated that it would find it easier to preemptively remove content from its UK catalog than face the burden of compliance and potential liability, unless there is more clarity on the bill's provisions.

Netflix's UK head of policy, Benjamin King, has previously expressed concerns about how these impartiality requirements could affect the availability of documentaries on the platform, highlighting potential threats to freedom of expression. The company also raised concerns about individuals outside the UK being able to lodge complaints with the media regulator, leading to the risk of "complaint tourism." This new bill adds to the ongoing challenges faced by Netflix. While it remains the leading streaming service in the UK with an estimated subscriber base of 17 million, it experienced a global decline in subscribers last year for the first time in over a decade, prompting the company to crack down on password sharing.


Disney has also voiced similar concerns regarding the regulations. In a document submitted to the Culture, Media, and Sport Committee, Disney argued that it had implemented measures like age ratings on its streaming service, Disney+, to safeguard audiences, believing that broad regulation would be disproportionate. However, Disney recently announced the removal of content from its global streaming service for cost-cutting reasons. Titles such as Willow, Big Shot, Turner & Hooch, Just Beyond, Mysterious Benedict Society, and The World According To Jeff Goldblum are among those being removed.