Threat to UK media

RUSSIA last night threatened to expel all British media if its TV channel is shut down in the UK.

Media regulator Ofcom said yesterday that RT, a 24-hour news network funded by Moscow, could lose its UK licence if the Government rules Russia was behind the poisoning.

In response, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman Maria Zakharova said: ‘Not a single British media outlet will work in our country if they shut down Russia Today.’

Ofcom, which enforces the broadcasting code, is charged with checking holders of licences are ‘fit and proper’. It said any ruling that Russia had acted unlawfully against Britain over the poisoning would be considered.

RT said in a statement: ‘Our broadcasting has in no way changed this week and continues to adhere to all standards.’