BBC refusal to broadcast aid appeal 'appalling and wrong' - Kevin Lang

5.29.11pm GMT Sat 24th Jan 2009

Kevin Lang believes the BBC are wrong for refusing to broadcast a Gaza aid appeal.

Local Liberal Democrat candidate, Kevin Lang has joined the criticism of the BBC for its refusing to broadcast an appeal for donations to pay for aid in Gaza.

The Disaster Emergency Committee (DEC) is a respected group of 13 charities, including the British Red Cross, Oxfam and Save the Children. The Committee has now appealed urgently for aid to address the humanitarian crisis that exists in Gaza following the recent conflict.

Previous DEC television appeals have raised millions of pounds. However, the BBC has refused to broadcast the Gaza appeal after concerns that it may call into question their impartiality. Other broadcasters, including ITV and Channel 4 will broadcast the message.

Local Lib Dem parliamentary candidate Kevin Lang, who has already donated to the DEC appeal said,

"This decision by the BBC flies in the face of common sense. Of course it is vital for the BBC to remain impartial in their coverage of news. They also have the right to take independent editorial decisions. However, on this issue, the BBC are simply wrong.

"The recent conflict in the Middle East has left a massive humanitarian crisis in Gaza. 75% of the area has been completely cut off from electricity. The water and sewerage system has almost completely collapsed. Thousands of people are struggling to survive.

"We know that television appeals are incredibly effective in reaching out to the British audience. I hope the BBC reverse this appalling decision and join other broadcasters to ensure as much money as possible can be raised to help alleviate the incredible suffering now being seen in Gaza."

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You can make a donation to the Disaster Emergency Committee appeal by clicking here.