The Office of Communications (Ofcom), the UK’s independent media regulator, has initiated an investigation into the “Dan Wootton Tonight” show on GB News following a barrage of complaints totalling 7,300 after a controversial appearance by actor and commentator Laurence Fox.
The storm of complaints ensued after Laurence Fox made derogatory comments about journalist Ava Evans during the show that aired on Tuesday. Fox’s comments included questioning what “self-respecting man” would “climb into bed” with her. These remarks ignited a firestorm of criticism and led to a swift response from viewers.
Ofcom, in response to the substantial number of complaints, announced that they have launched an investigation into the episode that aired on Tuesday, September 26, 2023. The investigation is being conducted in accordance with Rule 2.3 of the Broadcasting Code, which stipulates that broadcasters must ensure that potentially offensive material is justified by the context in which it is presented.
Dame Melanie Dawes, Chief Executive of Ofcom, addressed the investigation and the role of the independent broadcast regulator, saying, “Over the last few days, there has been speculation and commentary about our role as the independent broadcast regulator. These are important issues, and I wanted to be clear about our rules.”
Dawes continued, “Parliament sets objectives on how the broadcast sector should be regulated. We set and enforce rules to achieve these objectives. Contrary to some claims, these rules remain unchanged. They are designed to protect audiences from offensive and harmful material, and to uphold the integrity of broadcast news and current affairs programming, while always ensuring that freedom of expression is front and centre in every decision we take. This is highly valued by audiences and central to our democracy.”
She emphasised that Ofcom’s decisions are based on facts and evidence, always taken after a program has aired, and are vital to protect the integrity of the media landscape.
This investigation by Ofcom comes in the wake of a series of events involving Dan Wootton, a prominent media figure who had a column with MailOnline. Wootton’s contract with MailOnline was recently terminated following allegations by the Byline Times, which he denies.
