BBC's Glastonbury Broadcast Draws Ire, Prompts Apology Demand

Dame Priti Patel has called for a full apology and explanation from the BBC regarding its broadcast of a performance at Glastonbury. She condemned the broadcaster for allowing "hate-fuelled content" and argued that it risks normalizing such views in society. She questioned the BBC's professionalism and editorial integrity, stating that the corporation should not provide a platform for incitement. She demanded a public apology, an explanation of how the incident occurred, and details on how to prevent similar broadcasts in the future.

The controversy arose from a live performance by the punk duo Bob Vylan, who chanted "death" to the Israel Defense Forces and expressed support for Palestine. This performance led to accusations from the Israeli Embassy that Glastonbury had become a platform for promoting violence and the elimination of Jewish self-determination. The condemnation was widespread, with other politicians also criticizing both the BBC and Glastonbury.

Other figures also weighed in on the issue. Former BBC executive Roger Bolton stated that the broadcaster should have stopped the broadcast. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy had an urgent conversation with the BBC's director-general, seeking an explanation of the due diligence carried out before the performance. A Glastonbury insider suggested that the BBC may have been distracted by another controversial band, Kneecap, and failed to adequately assess the potential for controversy with Bob Vylan.

Glastonbury's founder, Michael Eavis, had previously stated that the festival is a political event. However, the festival later released a statement condemning Bob Vylan's chanting as antisemitism. The festival organizers stated that while they do not necessarily share the views of all performers, there is no place for antisemitism, hate speech, or incitement to violence at Glastonbury. Avon and Somerset Police were assessing video evidence but had not yet launched a formal investigation. The BBC stated that a warning was issued during the live stream and that they have no plans to make the performance available on demand.