The BBC have revealed a deep pro-abortion bias by referring to controversial amendments, including an amendment attempting to introduce abortion to Northern Ireland, as “exciting titbits” (a phrase which has since been removed).
In the build-up to yesterday’s debate on the Northern Ireland (Executive Formation) Bill, the BBC drew attention to three amendments which were the subject of much debate. After explaining that it is the Speaker of the House who has the authority to decide which amendments are accepted, the BBC article said
“But, if chosen, there are three exciting titbits that could make this bill more than just a straightforward government measure.” [emphasis added]
One of the “exciting titbits” to which the BBC refer was an amendment concerning abortion in Northern Ireland.
For reasons unknown, the BBC has subsequently changed this sentence to say:
“But, if chosen, there are three amendments that could make this bill more than just a straightforward government measure.”
Right To Life UK’s Clare McCarthy said: “The pro-abortion bias of the BBC is on clear display in this statement and its hurried revision. The national broadcaster has a duty to remain neutral in its dissemination of news, and this kind of statement speaks volumes about their attitude to abortion.”
“Referring to a radical abortion amendment is an ‘exciting titbit’ trivialises an immensely important issue with far-reaching consequences not only for mothers and their unborn babies in Northern Ireland but also potentially for the rest of the UK.”
“This ‘exciting titbit’ also threatens to undermine devolution, makes a mockery of parliamentary process, and the language stands in stark contrast to the BBC’s own style-guide which says ‘[a]bortion is a very painful topic’ and is ‘one of the most polarising moral issues’.
