The BBC Trust, the governing body of state-funded broadcaster has begun consultations on its proposed revised editorial guidelines that intend to synchronise its broadcast and online editorial policies.
While aiming to safeguard independence and editorial integrity, the guidelines require mandatory referrals to senior management if any news story making serious allegations relies on a single source. Further, in a move that could rein in the ability of BBC correspondents nothing could be written
But it is in the area of language and the use of strong swearwords where the biggest changes are being made. While not altogether banned, their use must be justified and they must not be used when children are listening or viewing before the 9pm watershed. The strongest language, and therefore the words most likely to cause offense, need to be approved:
5.4.24 Any proposal to use the strongest language (cunt, motherfucker and fuck or its derivatives) must be referred to and approved by the relevant Output Controller, who should consider the editorial justification. Chief Adviser Editorial Policy may also be consulted.
The BBC has suffered a string of mishaps and outraged criticism at the behaviour of some of its presenters on air, the most notorious of which was when Russell Brand and Jonathon Ross left a telephone message for actor Andrew Sachs (Manuel in classic hit comedy Fawlty Towers) that caused wide offense.
The consultation period is open from today until 24 December. Read the full draft guidelines here.
