Complaint
The programme included a discussion about Brexit between Rod Liddle, columnist and author of a book about Brexit called 鈥淭he Great Betrayal鈥 and Tom Baldwin of the People鈥檚 Vote campaign. A viewer complained that the presenter Emily Maitlis was sneering and bullying towards Mr Liddle and in doing so exemplified the way the 麻豆官网首页入口 views Leave voters.
Outcome
The ECU did not agree that it was possible to deduce Emily Maitlis鈥 view on Brexit from the discussion. It also believed that it was valid to press Mr Liddle on his personal views聽 and noted that he had the opportunity to vigorously defend himself. However it was insufficiently clear that this was not Ms Maitlis鈥檚 view of Mr Liddle but that of his critics, and the persistent and personal nature of the criticism risked leaving her open to the charge that she had failed to be even-handed between the two guests.
Upheld
Further action
The programme has been reminded of the need to ensure rigorous questioning of controversial views does not lead to a perceived lack of impartiality.聽