GB News fined £100,000 by Ofcom over Rishi Sunak programme
Ofcom has reported that GB News has been penalized £100,000 for violating impartiality regulations during a broadcast that highlighted Rishi Sunak.
In May, the regulatory authority revealed that the program titled People's Forum: The Prime Minister had violated broadcasting regulations.
In reaction to this, Angelos Frangopoulos, the CEO of GB News, stated that the penalty represents a "blatant assault on freedom of expression and journalism in the UK."
"We see these sanctions as unneeded, unjust, and illegal," he continued.
The one-hour program, broadcast on February 12, featured members of the audience asking questions to the prime minister at the time.
Nonetheless, Ofcom got a total of 547 complaints regarding the show.
Earlier this year, the regulatory body determined that although it was acceptable to include Mr. Sunak, it was important to consider a full spectrum of significant perspectives beyond just those of the Conservative Party.
It stated that the former prime minister "had a largely unchallenged opportunity to advocate for his government's policies and achievements right before a UK General Election," which was noted as a violation of impartiality guidelines.
On Thursday, Ofcom announced that due to the severity and ongoing nature of this violation, they have decided to fine GB News £100,000.
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The channel was instructed to "release a report on our conclusions about it, on a date and in a manner of our choosing."
GB News is contesting the decision regarding the breach through a judicial review, and Ofcom has decided to hold off on enforcing the sanction until the review process is finished.
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Mr. Frangopoulos responded by stating that the program was a significant contribution to public interest broadcasting and that measures were put in place to guarantee fair impartiality.
He mentioned, "It was created so that the public can ask their own questions directly to top politicians."
"GB News has decided to operate under regulatory oversight, and we recognize our responsibilities according to the Code."
"However, Ofcom is also required by law to protect freedom of speech and ensure that its regulations are applied justly and within the confines of the law."
Ofcom discovered that GB News breached impartiality guidelines in March due to five shows that had Conservative MPs as hosts.
