Donald Trump Criticizes BBC Over Panorama Video Controversy
In a leaked internal memo, Michael Prescott revealed how the BBC allegedly manipulated a speech by President Donald Trump to falsely suggest he incited the Capitol Hill riots during a Panorama episode. Prescott, who served for three years as an independent advisor to the BBC's Editorial Guidelines and Standards Committee (EGSC) before stepping down in June, sent a critical dossier to the BBC Board last month after repeated concerns were ignored.
Details of the Alleged Video Manipulation
The memo describes a "mangled" video excerpt broadcast in October 2024, which misled viewers by showing Trump telling his supporters that he would "walk to the Capitol with them to fight like hell." In reality, the president said he would walk with them "to peacefully and patriotically make your voices heard."
Official Response from Trump’s Press Secretary
"This clip is 100 per cent fake news," said Karoline Leavitt, Trump’s press secretary, rejecting the BBC’s portrayal.
Pressure on BBC Leadership
Amid growing international criticism, BBC executives Tim Davie and Deborah Turness face increasing demands to clarify how the altered footage was aired.
Background on Michael Prescott's Role
Michael Prescott advised the EGSC independently, helping oversee editorial standards, but left the role in June. His internal memo represents a formal complaint that the BBC failed to adequately address despite prior warnings.
Summary: The controversy over a doctored BBC video allegedly misrepresenting President Trump’s speech has escalated, drawing sharp criticism and calls for BBC leadership accountability.
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