GB News Launches Legal Action Against Ofcom Over Breach of Broadcasting Rules

GB News Launches Legal Action Against Ofcom Over Breach of Broadcasting Rules

GB News has taken the bold step of launching legal proceedings against Ofcom, the media regulator, following a series of rulings against the channel for breaching broadcasting rules.

In a statement, GB News expressed its disagreement with Ofcom’s decisions, stating that they impede on journalists and broadcasters’ rights to make editorial judgments in accordance with the law. The channel’s spokesperson emphasized that Ofcom is obligated to uphold freedom of expression and apply its rules fairly and lawfully, which they believe has not been the case.

Ofcom, in response, stood by its decision and reiterated its commitment to maintaining broadcasting standards.

The dispute between GB News and Ofcom escalated after the regulator announced it was considering a statutory sanction against the channel for breaking due impartiality rules. This decision came after an investigation into a Q&A session featuring Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, where Ofcom found that the program failed to present a wide range of significant viewpoints despite critical questions from the public.

GB News also highlighted that Ofcom had upheld complaints against several other shows hosted by prominent figures, including Tory MPs Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, Esther McVey, and Phillip Davies.

This legal battle comes amidst a series of investigations into GB News’ programming, with the channel being found in breach of broadcasting rules 12 times since its launch in 2021. Several investigations are still ongoing, including one into a program hosted by former presenter Dan Wootton and another into Nigel Farage’s show for due impartiality.

Ofcom had previously warned GB News about future breaches, indicating that repeated violations could result in sanctions against the channel. The outcome of this legal action could have significant implications for the future of broadcasting regulation in the UK.