BBC Anchor Breaches Guidelines Over Terminology and Expression
The BBC has confirmed that presenter Martine Croxall broke network guidelines by switching from the phrase "pregnant people" to "women" during a live broadcast, accompanied by a notable facial expression.
Details of the Incident
During a June broadcast, Croxall reported on research from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine predicting nearly 600 heat-related deaths in the UK. She said:
“Malcolm Mistry, who was involved in the research, says that the aged, pregnant people — women,”
Croxall paused briefly, with an edge in her voice, before continuing:
“and those with pre-existing health conditions need to take precautions.”
Viewer Reactions and BBC Response
The BBC’s Executive Complaints Unit received 20 viewer complaints about Croxall’s reaction. They concluded she breached editorial impartiality standards, noting:
“The phrase ‘pregnant people’ was followed by a facial expression which has been variously interpreted by complainants as showing disgust, ridicule, contempt or exasperation.”
Initially, BBC News management suggested that Croxall responded to the awkward scripting that incorporated phrases from the research press release. The BBC’s style guide does not explicitly address the use of the term "pregnant people."
Summary
Martine Croxall's choice to replace "pregnant people" with "women," paired with her facial expression, led to complaints and a breach ruling of impartiality guidelines by the BBC.
Author's summary: The BBC ruled Martine Croxall breached impartiality standards after she corrected “pregnant people” to “women” live on air, with her facial expression sparking controversy.