Complaint
The programme included a discussion about Brexit between Rod Liddle, columnist and author of a book about Brexit called βThe Great Betrayalβ and Tom Baldwin of the Peopleβs 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 ΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ views Leave voters.
Outcome
The ECU did not agree that it was possible to deduce Emily Maitlisβ view on Brexit from the discussion. It also believed that it was valid to press Mr Liddle on his personal viewsΒ and noted that he had the opportunity to vigorously defend himself. However it was insufficiently clear that this was not Ms Maitlisβs 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.Β