Regulators are frequently the source of castigation, but they are bound by practical realities

Ed Miliband’s proposals to strengthen OfGem and OfCom – the state regulators of the energy and broadcast sectors – has put the role of democratic regulation in a market economy in the spotlight. Here Conall Bolger argues that regulators have a difficult role and that any discussion of alternatives to the current arrangements must take into account sectoral complexity, resources and legislation.