We Will NOT Be Silenced!” – BBC Star Hits Back at GB News Over ‘False’ Islamophobia Claims
GB News has pushed back against criticism from BBC News presenter and Mastermind host Clive Myrie, following his comments on the channel’s coverage of Muslim-related issues. Myrie shared an article from The Guardian, which referenced a report by the Muslim Council of Britain accusing GB News of “disproportionate” coverage of Muslim content.
The article prompted a strong response from GB News, with presenters defending their editorial decisions and accusing Myrie of undermining a rival broadcaster while holding a privileged position at the BBC.
Myrie, who earns over £300,000 annually from the publicly funded BBC, faced additional scrutiny over his impartiality. The controversy comes after revelations that he failed to declare earnings of at least £45,000 from external corporate events, including roles for major banks and housing organizations.
Myrie issued a public apology on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“I’ve had several administrative issues and didn’t fill out the correct paperwork for some of my external public events. I’ve told the BBC I won’t be taking part in any more paid external events beyond a handful of pre-existing commitments.”
Despite the apology, critics questioned how Myrie could maintain impartiality while engaging in paid events with organizations tied to financial services, housing, and climate change debates.
GB News argued that the broader issue concerns the BBC’s approach to controversial topics, particularly those involving Muslim communities. Presenters on GB News defended their editorial decisions, citing major stories like grooming gangs, extremism, and terrorism as significant national concerns.
One GB News presenter said:
“Are we not allowed to talk about extremist attacks like Manchester Arena, London Bridge, or security concerns around Christmas markets? The BBC might avoid these topics, but we won’t.”
The dispute highlights growing tensions between the BBC, as the UK’s publicly funded broadcaster, and GB News, a commercial channel positioning itself as an alternative voice.
Observers note that GB News has seen significant audience growth in recent months, challenging traditional broadcasters. Former BBC employees and political commentators on GB News suggested that criticism from figures like Clive Myrie reflects concerns within the BBC over its declining viewership.
Journalist and broadcaster Sir Michael Fabricant remarked:
“The BBC is nervous. GB News is growing, and they don’t like it. They’re worried about losing audiences and the future of the licence fee.”
The BBC’s impartiality policies have been a recurring subject of debate. Public figures, including sports presenter Gary Lineker, have previously faced criticism over their use of social media to express political opinions.
While Myrie’s supporters argue that his criticism of GB News falls within his rights as a journalist, critics insist it breaches impartiality guidelines. Commentators also questioned whether BBC presenters should publicly engage in debates with competing broadcasters.
The BBC has yet to comment on Myrie’s statements or the backlash from GB News.
