Keir Starmer refuted Donald Trump’s accusation of the BBC having “corrupt journalists.” Downing Street supported the BBC, emphasizing its international reputation and dismissing claims of institutional bias. The BBC’s director general Tim Davie and News chief executive Deborah Turness resigned following allegations that the BBC manipulated footage of Trump to suggest his involvement in the Capitol Hill riots. Trump hailed the resignations, labeling the journalists as corrupt and threatening legal action against the BBC.
The Prime Minister’s spokesperson defended the BBC, highlighting its crucial role in combating disinformation and the necessity for the broadcaster to act swiftly to maintain trust and rectify errors promptly. While addressing questions about bias, the spokesperson emphasized the importance of accountability for public service broadcasters. The future of the BBC license fee was not disclosed during discussions on the broadcaster’s charter review.
Criticism was directed at the BBC for a Panorama documentary that allegedly misrepresented Trump’s speech preceding the Capitol riot, where he urged his supporters to protest the election certification. The White House condemned the BBC, denouncing it as purveyor of fake news and propaganda.
Samir Shah, the chair of the BBC, acknowledged the editing error in the Panorama episode and expressed regret for the misrepresentation of Trump’s speech. Deborah Turness reiterated that the BBC is not institutionally biased and its journalists are not corrupt, underscoring the broadcaster’s global trustworthiness.
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