Media regulator Ofcom has launched investigations into shows hosted by politicians on GB News and TalkTV. The first probe centres around Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg’s State of the Nation programme while the second is for an episode of Talk TV’s Richard Tice show presented by former SNP-leader Alex Salmond.
Sir Jacob’s GB News show addressing a court case involving Donald Trump resulted in the media watchdog receiving 40 complaints objecting to the MP for North East Somerset acting as a newsreader during his State Of The Nation show on May 9.
Politicians are prevented from this role unless it can be “editorially justified”.
The investigation will look into whether the GB News programme stuck to the guidelines when it reported on the civil trial verdict reached that day on the former US president.
An Ofcom spokesperson said: “We are investigating whether this programme broke our rules, which prevent politicians from acting as newsreaders, unless exceptionally, it is editorially justified.”
Read more… Family accused of not paying bills in restaurants in Essex then Cornwall[LATEST]
The regulator will also investigate the TalkTV episode on April 2 presented by Mr Salmond, who is the leader of the Alba Party.
Ofcom has said it received two complaints regarding the impartiality of that programme in relation to a discussion over whether the SNP was “holding back the course of independence”.
A spokesperson said: “We are investigating whether this programme broke our rules requiring news and current affairs to be presented with due impartiality.”
The media regulator added it is still looking into an edition of GB News’ Saturday Morning With Esther And Philip broadcast on March 11 which stars the husband-and-wife duo Esther McVey and Philip Davies who are both serving MPs.
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Ofcom’s rules on politicians presenting programmes were first introduced in 2005.
The media watchdog has said it is carrying out new research to “gauge current audience attitudes” into current affairs programmes presented by sitting politicians due to the rise in the format.
This report will be carried out by an research agency and Ofcom aim to publish the findings later this year.
TalkTV and GB News have been approached for comment.
Source: Read Full Article