The Editor Scoop Independent News www.scoop.co.nz
8 April 2005
Sirs
Re: British Forces Broadcasting Service
Following David Miller’s article ‘BBC Say ‘Fake Journalists’ Will Not Be Used Again’ published on Scoop.co.nz on 24
March 2005, British Forces Broadcasting Service (BFBS) Radio and Television would like to state that we are editorially
independent from the Ministry of Defence. This independence is enshrined within the contract that Services Sound and
Vision Corporation (SSVC, the parent group) has with the MoD.
BFBS enjoys unfettered reporting and the staff of more than 100 broadcasters take exception to allegations of bias which
undermines the credibility of the service. Additionally it is an insult to the intelligence of thousands of British
military personnel to suggest that they are spoonfed propaganda laundered by BFBS.
BFBS reporting sits alongside the BBC, ITV News and IRN; if we were to employ such a cynical manipulation of
information, as suggested within David Miller’s article, we would be entirely discredited with both our audience and our
peers. All BFBS staff rigorously follow industry standards regarding independence, balance and accuracy and are
categorically not purveyors of propaganda.
Charles Foster, Controller BFBS Radio Helen Williams, Controller BFBS TV