Director General Tim Davie Under Fire
The boss of the BBC, Tim Davie, faced criticism from ministers and Tory MPs over the broadcaster's coverage of small boats and Hamas. In a stormy closed-door meeting with the Conservative's powerful 1922 Committee, Davie was heckled and questioned about the BBC's editorial processes.
Disappointment and Turning Tides
Cabinet Minister Robert Jenrick expressed his disappointment, stating that he had "never been so disappointed" and claimed that the Jewish community was turning against the BBC. Davie's call to label Hamas as terrorists was also met with resistance.
Intense Grilling and Lost Room
The meeting quickly turned into an intense grilling, with Tory MP Jill Mortimer demanding to know if Davie believed Hamas to be terrorists. Davie opted not to answer, deeming it "inappropriate," and instead urged MPs to consider the perspective of "young moderate Palestinians."
Sources suggest that Davie "lost the room" at this point, indicating a lack of support for his position.
Criticism of Small Boats Coverage
In addition to concerns about coverage of Hamas, Dover MP Natalie Elphicke criticized the BBC's handling of small boats and sympathy towards illegal immigrants. The BBC's review of its editorial processes on migration, led by board member Sir Robbie Gibb, was mentioned in response.
Review to be Published
The BBC sources have stated that the review will be published "in full" before Christmas, indicating a commitment to transparency and addressing the concerns raised.
