As the scandal over Martin Bashir’s 1995 Panorama interview with Princess Diana continues to deepen, the very purpose and structure of the Corporation are now under unprecedented scrutiny.
What makes this crisis so damaging is the contrast between the BBC’s highminded self-image and the grubby reality of its actions.
It sees itself as a cherished institution on a noble mission to guide the nation, yet, in the case of the Panorama interview, there was complete breakdown in any standards of journalistic or corporate integrity.
Not only did Bashir entrap the Princess with his web of deceit, which centred on fake bank statements, but his disgraceful behaviour was covered up for 25 years by top management.
The Panorama conspiracy is only the latest in a recent catalogue of scandals that includes the concealment of Jimmy Savile’s monstrous crimes and the vicious smearing of Tory grandee Lord McAlpine by Newsnight in 2012.
Just as reprehensible was the decision to broadcast a police raid on the home of singer Cliff Richard in 2014, for which the Corporation ended up paying him over £2million in compensation and legal costs.
This story is from the May 24, 2021 edition of Daily Express.
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This story is from the May 24, 2021 edition of Daily Express.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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