Toksvig calls for Radio 4 change

Sandi Toksvig is among more than 30 figures who have called for Radio 4 to open up its morning slot Thought For The Day.

There have been calls to include non-religious contributors to the segment, in Radio 4’s Today programme, for several years. Now a letter – also signed by philosopher Julian Baggini, comedian Ed Byrne and scientist and presenter Alice Roberts – has been published in the Guardian, calling on the BBC to lift the bar on humanists taking part. The morning slot sees religious figures reflect on current events from a faith perspective.

The letter says: “It’s time for the BBC to open its flagship reflective slot, Thought For The Day, to humanists. Religion doesn’t hold a monopoly on ethical worldviews. There is another mainstream tradition, as old as religion, that has much to say on the ethical issues of our time – and that’s humanism.”

It adds: “By barring humanists, the BBC is blatantly failing its remit to reflect the diversity of beliefs of its audience and wider population, and its legal duty to treat non-religious and religious beliefs equally.”

Last year, a BBC report said the broadcaster should continue to air Thought For The Day.