Feltz gambling ad risked bias claim

BBC bosses have re-written Vanessa Feltz’s contract amid fears that her adverts for online gambling firm Pink Casino put the broadcaster’s impartiality at risk.

They took action after the radio host fronted a three-hour show last September without discussing a major review of gambling regulations, proposed by Labour that morning.

It was reported in the 6am news bulletin on BBC Radio London, but was dropped by the time Miss Feltz, pictured, went on air at 7am. The 57year-old host – who earned up to £340,000 last year – discussed numerous topics during her show, but not the review. or her online casino adverts. The BBC’s internal watchdog accepted the show’s team did not take into account Miss Feltz’s online adverts when deciding topics. The team said they dropped the story for news more relevant to a London audience. But the watchdog partially upheld a complaint as the adverts ‘ risked’ making it look biased. The BBC has tightened the terms of her contract. Miss Feltz did not comment.