Broadcasting Act 1980

The Broadcasting Act 1980 (1980 c. 64) was an Act of Parliament in the United Kingdom. It was repealed by the Broadcasting Act 1981, though the provisions of the Act remained in force.

The most significant effect of the Act was to amend the Independent Broadcasting Authority Act 1973, giving the Independent Broadcasting Authority the power to provide a second television station. This began the process which would lead to the creation of Channel 4 in 1982.

It also made provision for the broadcasting of television programmes in Wales, and established the Broadcasting Complaints Commission.

It also allowed the government to take over control of the BBC in a time of national emergency.