Why has BBC issued new social media guidelines and what is the Gary Lineker controversy? Know about the new regulations
Gary Lineker, the BBC has released updated social media guidelines for its presenters, including a clear stance against endorsing or attacking political parties.
A Controversial Tweet
The controversy that prompted these new guidelines began when Gary Lineker commented on the U.K. government's crackdown on boats bringing migrants across the English Channel from France. His tweet, describing the policy as «immeasurably cruel» and drawing historical comparisons, raised concerns. As a result, the BBC briefly suspended Lineker, sparking a review of its social media policies.
The Review and Revised Guidelines
The BBC commissioned a review conducted by former TV executive John Hardie to reevaluate the guidelines surrounding «individual use of social media,» particularly for on-air freelancers outside of news, current affairs, and factual journalism. The review prompted the BBC to revise its guidelines.
Key Elements of the New Guidelines
The updated guidelines emphasize the importance of respecting «high standards of civility in public discourse» and not bringing the BBC into disrepute. They include specific rules for those presenting flagship programs, such as Lineker.
For presenters in news, current affairs, and factual journalism, along with senior leaders, the guidelines state that they have a significant responsibility to uphold BBC's impartiality and must adhere to strict rules regarding impartiality.
Presenters of flagship programs, due to their high profile on the BBC, have an even greater responsibility to respect impartiality. This extends to their use of social media during the airing of flagship programs and for a two-week period before and after each series they present.
Other BBC staff and
