FOLLOWING major backlash against the BBC over an anti-immigration rant they posted on social media without rebuttal, SNP MP Tommy Sheppard has sent a letter to Question Time's editor seeking answers.
You can read his full letter below:
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I am writing to outline a number of concerns with the Question Time programme from Weymouth on Thursday 20th February.
In particular, I am concerned that an extended contribution from one audience member which included factually incorrect assertions and an inciting tone on immigration.
I was deeply disappointed that the audience member was not challenged on these plainly incorrect assertions but even more surprised that Question Time then clipped this contribution and posted to their Twitter site without any fact-checking or context.
Question Time used to use their social media outlets to ‘live’ fact-check contributions from panellists and the audience, as well as giving context to each question asked by the audience.
Rather than carelessly clipping these inflammatory contributions on immigration, I suggest that Question Time looks to reinstate the more informative and engaging fact-checking as part of their social media strategy.
The BBC's mission is to "inform, educate and entertain". The 'informing' and 'educating', seemed to be lacking from this flagship current affairs programme this week.
I trust you will consider the points raised and look forward to your reply.
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Callum Baird, Editor of The National
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