Tory anger at BBC over ‘left-wing bias’ in Panorama probe
THE Government has complained to the BBC over a controversial Panorama investigation into personal protective equipment for health workers.
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden warned the BBC it risked losing the public’s confidence after it was revealed that five medical professionals featured in the programme were left-wing activists.
Mr Dowden has written to BBC directorgeneral Tony Hall urging him to “uphold the highest standards in relation to integrity and impartiality”.
The BBC confirmed yesterday it had received the letter and “will respond in due course”.
When the Panorama episode was screened on April 27, viewers were not told that four doctors and a nurse featured were Labour party activists or supporters. Health Secretary Matt Hancock has questioned whether the programme provided “a fair and objective assessment of the supply of PPE”.
Mr Dowden added: “The public should be able to turn to the BBC for transparent, unimpeachable, reliable news.”
The BBC has defended the programme.
It claimed it was “a rigorous, properly sourced investigation into the procurement and supply of PPE, which posed serious questions for Government.”
A spokesperson went on to say: “Some NHS Trusts have discouraged health care workers from discussing the lack of PPE.
“So it is, perhaps, not surprising that those willing to speak out are more involved with campaigning around the NHS.”