ITV & Channel Four to Show Gaza Appeal

ITV and Channel Four have decided to show a charity appeal for Gaza despite initially refusing too along with the BBC and Sky. While ITV and C4 have now agreed to air the appeal the BBC is yet to back down over its decision not to while Sky is still considering its position. BBC Broadcasting House in London has seen up to 200 protestors outside angry at the corporation’s decision.

Broadcasters ITV, Channel Four and Five will air a charity appeal for the Gaza Strip despite early stating they would not. Initially it was decided between broadcasters the appeal would not be shown due to concerns over impartiality and whether the aid would actually reach those who needed it. The decision caused anger amongst some and calls from the Government for the broadcasters to change their minds. ITV and Channel Four will now show the charity appeal and Sky is considering its position but the BBC has so far refused to back down.

BBC Broadcasting House in London has been the subject of protest by up to 200 people who were angered by the BBC’s decision. Veteran politician Tony Benn has been critical of the BBC’s decision and was amongst the protestors outside Broadcasting House. Earlier in the day he was interviewed on the Radio and on the BBC’s News Channel over the BBC decision. Benn attacked the corporation but when challenged over whether or not it could be guaranteed the aid would actually reach those who needed it Benn didn’t give a direct answer.

At the protest outside BBC Broadcasting House Benn predicted the BBC would back down by this evening after Channel Four, Five and ITV reversed their earlier decision. However, Benn’s prediction did not come true as the corporation was still standing by its decision as off Sunday morning.

Do you agree with the BBC’s refusal to air the appeal on the grounds of impartiality of lack of guarantee the aid will reach those who need it? Or do you agree with the stance of the Government and Mr Benn and think the corporation should back done? Send your thoughts on the matter to us at editor@atvnewsnetwork.co.uk