Comments by "Ash Roskell" (@ashroskell) on "BBC removes Huw Edwards Dr Who episode" video.

  1. The Prime Minister needs to remove the current Chair of the BBC and appoint a new, unbiased one, with actual journalistic or editorial experience and NO history of being a major donor to any party. I have no problem with the BBC honouring their contract with Edwards up to the point where he was proved to be guilty of a crime. And, assuming that he gave assurances that he intended to prove his innocence. I don’t know if that was the case, but I would hope it was. The nature of the contract itself, whether they were paying him too much, is another issue. But, if they had been assured of his innocence, they should sue for those wages paid from the point of the arrest, on the basis that he lied to them. That should be cut and dried . . . ? I stand with you on the notion of censorship. Rolf Harris, much like Jimmy Saville, did public information films about being safe in the water (chillingly, surrounded by children in swimwear) but I don’t intend to drown myself or my offspring due to the revelations about the man. The current state of the BBC reflects the broader problem of OFCOM being a bunch of Tory pals in an organisation with no teeth even if they did decide to do their jobs. We should be hearing from them on EVERY SINGLE issue that involves moral dilemmas and where thoughtful guidance is needed. That organisation is completely meaningless as it is and THAT is the problem. We NEED a centralised independent overseer of all media in this country, with subpoena powers and the powers to make firm recommendations that will be followed. AND they should have the power to make referrals to the Crown Prosecution Service! We need an organisation with teeth, staffed with believers who understand how important these issues are to democracy and the democratic process as a whole. As it is, the BBC does not represent the nation, or the nation’s interests. And, as you touch on, this act of censorship looks more like a personal act of censureship, in a lame attempt to, “punish,” a man who hurt their feelings. And what of all the other artists, writers, technicians and producers who made that episode of Dr Who, who are now to be punished along with Huw Edwards? Why should they be flogged along with the guilty and innocent alike? It makes no sense. Especially since people will already have their box sets, which will now have a, “special,” collector’s value. You can’t block ANYTHING in the internet age. But you can act out of hubris and make more money for those willing to exploit your hubristic foolishness.
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