Donald Trump Attacks BBC Over Panorama Video Controversy
Michael Prescott, a former independent adviser to the BBC's Editorial Guidelines and Standards Committee, has accused the corporation of manipulating footage to falsely depict Donald Trump as inciting the Capitol Hill riots. Prescott sent a critical internal memo to the BBC Board after repeated concerns were ignored.
Details of the Alleged Video Manipulation
In the leaked dossier, Prescott explains how the BBC "doctored" a Trump speech for a Panorama episode aired in October 2024. The edited clip showed Trump telling supporters he would "walk to the Capitol" with them "to fight like hell," whereas the actual statement was that he intended to walk with them "to peacefully and patriotically make your voices heard."
"The 'mangled' excerpt completely misled viewers."
Response from Trump's Team
Karoline Leavitt, Trump’s press secretary, condemned the clip as "100 per cent fake news," intensifying calls for BBC executives Tim Davie and Deborah Turness to address the issue amid increasing international scrutiny.
Background of the Whistleblower
- Michael Prescott served three years as an independent external adviser to the BBC's standards committee.
- He left the role in June, sending warnings and the internal dossier after his concerns were repeatedly dismissed.
"Repeated warnings to the standards watchdog were dismissed or ignored."
Ongoing Impact
The controversy highlights growing tensions over media integrity and the portrayal of political figures in news coverage, with demands mounting for transparency from the BBC's leadership.
Author’s summary: A former BBC adviser alleges the broadcaster edited Trump’s speech misleadingly, prompting strong denials from Trump’s team and calls for BBC accountability.