News / BBC backs down over Billy
THE BBC has backed down on its refusal to allow Shetland independent candidate Billy Fox to join the platform at Friday’s hustings debate for BBC Radio Shetland.
Mr Fox had said he would boycott the debate and hold his own meeting afterwards after complaining to the BBC that their policy of only allowing him to speak from the audience was “undemocratic and discriminatory”.
He was backed first by Tory candidate Sandy Cross who called for the BBC to change their mind, and then by SNP candidate Jean Urquhart who said that she too would refuse to participate in the hustings.
On Tuesday lunchtime a BBC spokesman said they had reviewed their approach after receiving representations about their policy.
“Therefore we have now extended an invitation to the independent candidate Billy Fox to take part in the hustings programme on Radio Shetland sitting on the panel with the candidates representing the four main political parties,” the spokesman said.
However he stressed: “This does not represent a change in policy. BBC Scotland will consider each hustings broadcast on its merit.”
Mr Fox said that he was extremely glad about the decision. “I think the BBC have done the right thing. It is a blanket policy which did not fit with regional areas like Shetland.
“I think that it shows that an individual protest can actually change things. BBC national policy has changed, and I think that it’s a very good indication that an independent politician can make changes even before they are elected.”
Labout candidate Jamie Kerr welcomed the BBC’s decision. “Obviously Billy and I disagree on the wind farm, but I think in the interests of democracy he should be on the panel so Shetland can hear what he has to say.”
Liberal Democrat Tavish Scott added: “I am pleased that the BBC in Glasgow has listened to the representations made by all the candidates to allow all five candidates for the Shetland seat to play a full part in the hustings.
“This will allow a full debate, giving all candidates an equal opportunity to make their case and to be questioned on where they stand.”
The Shetland hustings debate will take place at the Shetland museum on Friday 22 April and be broadcast on BBC Radio Shetland at 6.10pm on Monday 25 April.
Meanwhile independent candidate James Stockan has also been allowed to sit on the platform in the BBC hustings debate in Orkney.
Become a member of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider paying for membership to get additional features and services: -
- Remove non-local ads;
- Bookmark posts to read later;
- Exclusive curated weekly newsletter;
- Hide membership messages;
- Comments open for discussion.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a member of Shetland News by either making a single payment, or setting up a monthly, quarterly or yearly subscription.
Already a member? Sign in to hide this message.
