Complaint
Both programmes included items about the removal of dead and dying salmon from a fish farm in the Firth of Lorn. Β The reports prompted a wide-ranging complaint from Scottish Salmon, which represents the Scottish salmon sector, about the accuracy and impartiality of the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ’s coverage.
Outcome
The reports reflected concerns raised by the animal welfare group, Animal Equality UK, on the day members of a Committee of MSPs visited the farm. Β The ECU considered there was a clear public interest in broadcasting these concerns and the response to them, in the context of a known increase in the number of fish dying on farms and the political inquiry into the environmental impact of the industry.Β In the ECU’s view the reports gave proper weight to the industry’s perspective and accurately described the group who filmed the removal of dead and dying fish and what they claimed to have found. Β Viewers and readers would have understood the group believed it was evidence of poor conditions and high mortality rates whereas those who represent the industry said the removal was routine and farming conditions have improved. Β Β Β
Not Upheld