GB News Slammed by Ofcom for Bias on Immigration Debate
GB News has been caught out! Ofcom blasted the channel for breaching due impartiality rules during a heated immigration debate aired on June 16, 2023. The weekly show, hosted by Martin Daubney, came under fire for skewed coverage on small boats crossing the English Channel.
Martin Daubney’s One-Sided Interview Sparks Complaint
The controversy centres on Daubney’s interview with Reform Party leader Richard Tice. Ofcom slammed the broadcast for failing to challenge views adequately or present a broad range of opinions on immigration and asylum policy. The watchdog ruled the programme broke the Broadcasting Code by lacking balance and impartiality.
GB News admitted the content missed the mark on “heightened special impartiality requirements.” Ofcom expects the channel to tighten up future shows or face further action.
Home Secretary Interview Clears Ofcom’s Radar
On the flip side, Ofcom gave a thumbs-up to GB News’s 1 Anderson’s Real World episode from September 29, 2023. The show featured Home Secretary Suella Braverman in a robust discussion on immigration and border control. Led by Tory Deputy Chair Lee Anderson, the programme was praised for delivering a wide range of views and rigorously challenging statements.
Ofcom said, “GB News employed editorial techniques, including challenging statements and diverse perspectives, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the topic.”
More Trouble Brewing at GB News
But GB News isn’t out of the woods yet. Ofcom currently has 12 ongoing investigations — including one involving the recently suspended presenter Dan Wootton. The channel faces intense scrutiny as regulators clamp down on impartiality and journalistic standards.
