20-02-2024, 04:16 PM
(20-02-2024, 12:41 PM)qwerty123 Wrote: The problem with this argument is that there is absolutely no reason to believe a programme with Kier Starmer wouldn’t have been shown in a timely manner had Starmer agreed to such a programme. As Kier Starmer hadn’t agreed to appear at the time of broadcast it would have been impossible for GBNews to state the time of any such appearance as there was nothing arranged. As long as broadcasters give both parties a reasonable window in which to decide whether they want to appear before the programmes are scheduled and the offer remains open to those who initially decline it is entirely reasonable for broadcasters to go ahead with programmes featuring those who are willing to appear even if this means some parties get more airtime than others (as the alternative would mean political parties could veto appearances on programmes that they believe are likely to be beneficial to the other side).
It doesn't work like that. The "clearly linked programme" if due impartiality is to be provided in a different programme needs to be shown in a timely manner (e.g. a week later as happens in debates in the run up to elections or during party conference season). You can't just say at the end of the programme "Oh by the way, Leader of the Opposition, you're welcome to an hour here too".
If the opposition isn't willing to take part in such a programme or on such a channel (and why would they outside an election campaign?!), then you are still obliged to provide due impartiality and there are other ways of doing so.