Donald Trump Criticizes BBC over Panorama Video Controversy
Donald Trump's White House has strongly condemned the BBC amid a controversy involving an allegedly doctored video aired on Panorama. The dispute centers on a leaked memo from Michael Prescott, a former independent advisor to the BBC's Editorial Guidelines and Standards Committee (EGSC).
Details of the Memo from Michael Prescott
Michael Prescott, who served three years as an external adviser before stepping down in June, sent a critical dossier to the BBC Board last month. He claims repeated warnings about editorial standards were either "dismissed or ignored."
- The memo accuses the BBC of manipulating a Donald Trump speech during a Panorama episode.
- It argues the edited video falsely suggested Trump encouraged the Capitol Hill riots in October 2024.
- Prescott explains that the footage showed Trump saying he would walk to the Capitol with supporters to "fight like hell," while the original phrase was about walking "to peacefully and patriotically make your voices heard."
Official Response from Trump’s Press Secretary
Karoline Leavitt, Trump’s press secretary, dismissed the clip as "100 per cent fake news."
Amid growing international scrutiny, the BBC’s leadership, including Tim Davie and Deborah Turness, faces increasing pressure to address the allegations.
Context of the Controversy
This issue highlights ongoing tensions around media representation and editorial integrity during politically sensitive events, especially involving high-profile figures like the President.