Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has supported the BBC as a vital national institution while highlighting the need for it to modernize its purpose. The broadcaster is working to rebuild trust following a controversy involving the editing of a Donald Trump speech, leading to the resignations of top executives Tim Davie and Deborah Turness.
President Trump has threatened legal action against the BBC for alleged false and defamatory statements after his speech was edited in a Panorama documentary on the 2021 Capitol Hill riots. BBC chairman Samir Shah has acknowledged an “error of judgment” in the editing process.
Nandy criticized lawmakers for attacking the BBC as an institution rather than addressing specific editorial concerns, emphasizing the broadcaster’s significance as a national asset.
An upcoming review of the BBC charter, set to commence soon and valid until 2027, aims to ensure sustainable funding, public trust, and continued contribution to the UK’s growth and creativity.
Outgoing Director-General Davie urged BBC staff to defend the organization’s journalism, acknowledging past mistakes but emphasizing the importance of their work. He expressed pride in the BBC’s accomplishments and resilience against external criticism.
In response to Trump’s legal threats, Minister Alison McGovern emphasized the need for accountability and quality journalism within the BBC, suggesting that any editorial errors should be rectified without causing undue controversy.
Downing Street refrained from commenting on the legal dispute, stating that it is a matter for the BBC to address independently.
