Complaint
The programme included an interview with a representative of the Soil Association on issues raised by the recently-published report by the UN’s Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services. A representative of the Crop Protection Association complained that the interviewee had been given an opportunity to promote claims for organic farming which had been supported, rather than appropriately challenged, by the presenter.
Outcome
While most of the content of the interview was uncontroversial and editorially justified in relation to the UN report, the interviewee spoke in terms which suggested that the use of pesticides was harmful and to be avoided.Β In the absence of direct challenge, viewers might have understood this to be a matter of established fact, whereas there is an argument to the effect that the appropriate use of pesticides can be beneficial overall.Β In this respect, the item fell short of due impartiality.
Partly upheld
Further action
The Editor discussed the finding and the lessons arising from it with the presenter.