Fury over BBC ‘Why the Welsh language should die’ tweet

Researcher for 5 live debate sparks campaigners’ anger

A TWITTER storm erupted after a BBC researcher was found asking for people to discuss “why the Welsh language should die”.

Welsh language supporters lashed out when it emerged BBC 5 live had looked for participants to discuss the downfall of the nation’s language.

Sam Proffitt tweeted (pictured) asking for someone to go on the radio show to discuss the subject.

The programme aired on the radio station on Monday evening.

Former BBC journalist and current Plaid Cymru AM for Anglesey Rhun ap Iorwerth was aghast at his former employers.

He tweeted: “Gobsmacked (at) the BBC. “Why the Welsh language should die.” I pay a licence fee. @bbc5live please explain.

“My language isn’t a hobby, or an option. It’s my soul.

“The air that I breathe. To discuss ‘wanting’ my language to die? Can’t put in words.”

Speaking to the Daily Post, Mr ap Iorwerth said: “It’s not that the researcher who posted the tweet, it’s why the BBC’s programme for leading the debate thinks it is allowed to discuss whether the Welsh language should exist or not. “It’s just not acceptable.” But the BBC have rejected that claim, saying the “programme didn’t include this kind of discussion” and blamed the row on a poorly worded tweet.

A spokesperson for BBC Radio 5 live said: “We aired a broad discussion about non-English languages. We obviously wanted to reflect a full range of views. In seeking to do this, an inappropriate tweet was sent from a personal account. We’re sorry for any offence caused.” Plaid Cymru AM for Dwyfor Meirionnydd tweeted: “Welsh is my children’s first language. How can you condone this (BBC)?”

The original tweet was deleted but a screenshot was taken of it.

One irate Twitter user complained about the message to North Wales Police saying it constitutes a hate crime.

Plaid Cymru leader Leanne Wood tweeted the BBC asking how they will now tackle the situation.