CASE NUMBER 29/2003 – CARELSEN VS etv – BALANCE

When the Combined Forces attacked Iraq, e-t provided commentary from invited guests as the first few days unfolded. The Complainant argued that the views of Prof Gutto were one-sided, ill informed and of a poor standard. The Commission held that since the commentary related to a foreign matter, balance was not required. The views expressed were, in any case, of such a nature that the informed viewer, who would be the likely viewer of this kind of programme, would realize that the views are Prof Gutto’s views and that there are other contrasting views. The Broadcasting Code also does not have a bearing on standards of broadcasting. Complaint accordingly dismissed.