GB News is at risk of losing its broadcasting license after being hit by Ofcom regulations for breaching its impartiality rules.
Ofcom’s Verdict on GB News Programs
The recent assessment conducted by Ofcom has reached a verdict regarding several programs aired on the GB News channel.
GB News Suffers Rule Breach
Ofcom has argued that the popular show, GB News, formerly hosted by controversial figure Piers Morgan, breached its rules on impartiality.
Lack of Impartiality
According to Ofcom, GB News displayed five episodes that used politicians as its hosts, showing a lack of political neutrality in the content of the show.
Programs Under Review
Ofcom scrutinized five specific programs, including episodes of “Jacob Rees-Mogg’s State of the Nation” and “Friday Morning With Esther and Phil.”
Tory MPs Under Scrutiny
These shows in question featured politicians serving as hosts, namely Tory MPs Jacob Rees-Mogg, Esther McVey, and Philip Davies.
Breaking The Rules
Ofcom said on its website that “a politician cannot be a newsreader, news interviewer or news reporter unless, exceptionally, there is editorial justification.”
Politicians As An Interviewer
Ofcom insisted that politicians cannot act as an interviewer, but they can “appear in broadcast news content as an interviewee or any other type of guest.”
GB News Addresses “Chilling” Statement
GB News issued a statement calling the decision by Ofcom “chilling” addressing that the news programme is “Deeply concerned” by the regulator’s consensus.
Breach of Impartiality Rules
Ofcom’s findings suggest that politicians have an “inherently partial role in society” and if they act as newsreaders then the audience would likely be “in light of that perceived bias”
What Happens Next?
Ofcom has told GB News that it will be given a warning this time, but the programme is now “on notice” meaning it will be punished if found guilty again.
Ofcom’s Warning
Ofcom has formally warned the broadcaster that a further breach of the rulings would “result in the imposition of a statutory sanction.”
Fines And Penalties
Ofcom has the power to remove the broadcasting license of GB News if deemed necessary, along with issuing significant fines to the broadcaster.
Diminishing Work of Reporters
Ofcom insisted that in their view, politicians hosting and breaking news events to the public diminishes the work of impartial news broadcasters.
Ofcom’s Firm Stance
The regulator insisted, “the use of politicians to present the news risks undermining the integrity and credibility of regulated broadcast news.”
Culture Secretary Defends Show
Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer has defended GB News, stating that Ofcom does not say politicians cannot host current affairs programmes but does say they can’t break the news themselves.
“GB News Does a Fantastic Job”
Frazer admitted she believed GB News does a fantastic job,” and that she is “in favor of media plurality” before explaining why she believes Ofcom have got it wrong.
Ofcom’s “Clear” Rules
“GB News has decided to be regulated by Ofcom, it’s very clear that there’s a rule that doesn’t allow sitting MPs to present news,” Frazer admitted.
Frazer Points Out Flaw
Frazer then went on to point out that Ofcom “does allow” politicians “to present current affairs programmes,” which is what she believes GB News is doing.
GB News Statement
According to GB News, “This is a chilling development for all broadcasters, for freedom of speech, and for everyone in the United Kingdom.”
Could GB News Lose Its License?
With GB News contesting the decision by Ofcom, there’s a possibility they could ignore the ruling and offend again, potentially resulting in its license being taken away.
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The post GB News Lose Its License to Broadcast After Impartiality Breach Ruled by Ofcom first appeared on Edge Media.
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