Luton North MP Sarah Owen has warned against political interference in the BBC following the resignations of its director general and CEO of news over a wrongly edited Panorama clip of US president Donald Trump.
The programme stitched together two moments from a Trump speech, making it appear as though he had called on protestors to riot at the Capitol on January 6 2021. The error prompted accusations of bias and a potential $1billion lawsuit from the United States President, whose lawyers have called for an apology and a “full and fair retraction” of the Panorama documentary, and that the BBC “appropriately compensate President Trump for the harm caused”.
Speaking in the House of Commons last night, Ms Owen said the scandal was being exploited in the UK by those who want to weaken the free press.
“Whatever the position regarding Donald Trump, who has said far worse than what was shown in the wrongly edited clip, the only ones rubbing their hands with glee during this debacle are those who do not want a free press,” she told MPs.
“Those politicians who have deep pockets lined by goodness knows who, and who cosplay as journalists on RT and GB News to spread division and hatred. I hope that all of us in this House agree with the principle of keeping our public broadcaster free from political interference.”
The Luton North MP then pressed the government to act, asking: “Does the Secretary of State agree that it is time to review the influence of former Conservative spin doctor Robbie Gibb on the BBC’s board?”
Her comments came after culture secretary Lisa Nandy delivered a statement stressing the importance of restoring public trust in the BBC following what she described as “serious” editorial failings.
Ms Nandy, who said she is “unable to pursue the course of action” Ms Owen suggested regards Mr Gibb because of the BBC’s charter’s “strict legal theshold” that must be met regards the dismissal of a board member, also said she had been in regular contact with BBC chair Samir Shah. She said he has pledged “firm, swift and transparent action” after admitting to the failings.
“The BBC is not just a broadcaster; it is a national institution that belongs to us all,” Ms Nandy added. “Trusted news and high-quality programming are essential to our democratic and cultural life, and all of us in the House should value them, uphold them and fiercely defend them.”
Conservative minister Nigel Huddleston took a sharper line, accusing the BBC of a culture of political bias and calling for a “root-and-branch review” of its impartiality standards.
He said: “It is remarkable that in every area of its operations, the BBC seeks inclusivity and diversity—other than in thought and in political thinking.”
The controversy comes as the government prepares to begin a formal charter review process that will define the BBC’s direction and funding for the next decade.
Ms Nandy told MPs the forthcoming charter will ensure the broadcaster remains “fiercely independent and genuinely accountable to the public it serves”.
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