GB News is mounting a legal challenge against Ofcom’s decision, stating that their broadcast featuring Rishi Sunak was impartial.
The channel seeks to delay potential sanctions as they contest the regulator’s interpretation of their content.
GB News finds itself at the centre of a dispute with Ofcom following its broadcast of The People’s Forum featuring then-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Alleged breaches of due impartiality rules have led to potential sanctions. The key issue is the insufficient challenge of Sunak during the live audience Q&A session, which Ofcom claims violated its Broadcasting Code.
On May, Ofcom announced its consideration of statutory sanctions against GB News for what it deemed ‘serious and repeated’ breaches. These potential sanctions range from demanding corrections to suspending or revoking the broadcast licence altogether.
GB News had planned a balancing broadcast with Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, which was intended to air subsequently. However, this was cancelled following Ofcom’s intervention, amplifying the controversy surrounding the broadcast.
Represented by Tom Hickman KC, GB News contends that Ofcom’s findings are flawed, claiming that the breach was neither serious nor repeated. They argue that further actions before a legal determination would result in ‘irreparable damage’ to the channel’s standing.
GB News CEO Angelos Frangopoulos asserts that The People’s Forum was a vital piece of public interest programming, aligned with the Broadcasting Code and aimed at fostering direct interaction between the public and politicians.
Ofcom maintains its position, as presented by Anya Proops KC, highlighting that this was the twelfth breach by GB News since March of the previous year. They argue that there was no error in their determination or legal oversight.
The regulator stresses that their actions are in upholding standards and ensuring compliance with the Broadcasting Code, thus safeguarding public trust in broadcast media.
An ongoing legal battle seems likely as both parties prepare for further hearings, where the nuance of broadcasting impartiality will be intensely scrutinised.
The case underscores the critical intersection of media regulation and freedom of expression, raising questions around impartiality, public interest, and media responsibility.
GB News’ insistence on highlighting freedom of expression as a cornerstone of its programming ethos reflects broader debates about the role of news organisations in democratic societies.
Both GB News and Ofcom stand at a decisive juncture where future legal decisions may set significant precedents for UK broadcasting regulation.
The case will return to court at a later date, with the outcome potentially reshaping regulatory approaches for media organisations in the UK.
The unfolding legal dispute between GB News and Ofcom is pivotal, challenging the regulatory landscape regarding broadcasting impartiality.
As the case progresses, its implications may influence broadcasting standards and freedom of expression debates in the UK.