OK, that’s enough 

30 October 2008 tbs.pm/964

Brand has resigned; Ross probably ought to consider doing something similar himself. The pre-recording of edgy comedy programmes is a great way to make sure that the wrong thing doesn’t go out – but someone needs to keep an eye on things to make sure they don’t go over the edge. The programme’s producer went to a superior to ask if it was OK to air the segment, and someone told him yes. Bad move. Learn from the mistake and move on.

There will be an enquiry. The BBC needs to sort this out internally, bearing in mind the feelings of the injured parties. And move on.

Apart from that, this is over. The number of complaints is a tiny fraction of the number of listeners. The tabloids love blood on the floor, politicians think they can score points, and it is extremely important that the Corporation doesn’t over-react. Every organisation makes mistakes: it’s a bigger thing when the BBC makes one than when, say, a newspaper does, because we are all stakeholders. But while it’s not a storm in a teacup, it is certainly not as big a thing as some people would like to make it. It is not another stick for those who oppose it to beat the BBC with.

Enough. Wait for the results of the enquiry. Move on.

A member of the Transdiffusion Broadcasting System
Liverpool, Thursday 28 March 2024