Daijiworld Media Network - London
London, Nov 10: In a major shake-up at Britain’s national broadcaster, BBC Director-General Tim Davie and News CEO Deborah Turness have resigned following controversy over the editing of a speech made by former US President Donald Trump.
The BBC faced backlash for allegedly misrepresenting Trump’s January 6, 2021 speech — delivered before the Capitol riot — in a “Panorama” documentary. Critics said the program omitted Trump’s call for his supporters to protest “peacefully,” portraying instead a more aggressive tone.
A clip shared by The Daily Telegraph appeared to show lines from different parts of Trump’s address spliced together, where he was heard saying, “We fight like hell.” However, full transcripts revealed Trump had also urged demonstrators to “peacefully and patriotically make your voices heard.”
In a letter to staff, Davie said his decision to step down after five years was voluntary. “There have been some mistakes made, and as Director-General, I must take ultimate responsibility,” he said, adding that transition plans are underway.
Turness, in her resignation note, said the controversy had “caused damage to the BBC — an institution I love.” She added, “Leaders must be fully accountable, and that is why I am stepping down.”
Trump, reacting on his Truth Social platform, thanked The Daily Telegraph for “exposing corrupt journalists,” calling the incident “a terrible thing for democracy.”
Pressure had been mounting on BBC leadership since reports by the Telegraph also alleged bias in the network’s coverage of transgender and Middle East issues.
Kemi Badenoch, leader of the opposition Conservative Party, accused the broadcaster of “institutional bias” and called for deep cultural reforms. Meanwhile, Media Minister Lisa Nandy thanked Davie for his service, emphasizing that “trusted news and quality programming are vital to Britain’s democratic and cultural life.”
The BBC, a 103-year-old publicly funded institution, has long faced scrutiny over its impartiality, with critics on both sides accusing it of political bias.