BBC refutes suggestion of political partiality
The BBC has refuted suggestions made by the pro- nationalist website Newsnet Scotland that some of its most well-known presenters are hostile to the SNP and the nationalist cause.
It follows their reading of a series of educational videos published by the broadcaster, depicting the likes of Brian Taylor and Andrew Neil instructing raw recruits in the art of journalism.
This saw Taylor attack the proposed wording, timing and content of the SNP’s independence referendum.
A BBC spokesperson told The Drum: “The BBC regularly shares the expertise of its key correspondents and presenters on a wide range of issues with newsroom colleagues – and frequently makes it available to the wider public via our College of Journalism educational Online site.
“These presentations on the forthcoming referendum in Scotland were aimed primarily at raising awareness of a complex situation for staff throughout the BBC. As part of that process we will continue to share contributions both from our own staff but also from external participants with an interest in the referendum, including the parties.
“All the presentations – which are entirely consistent with BBC editorial guidelines on impartiality and balance - have been Online and available for both staff and the public for some weeks. We totally reject any suggestion that they are partial.”