Update on SoPP (blog 8 May 2006)

The BBC replied to my email on 17 May, but the reply didn't actually state whether 'sexual orientation' will be explicitly mentioned in future editions of the SoPP.

Their reply did refer to delivering the highest editorial and ethical standards in the provision of its programmes, meeting Ofcom's Broadcasting Code. The next part looked like some text from the SoPP - stuff about the BBC being a unique institution, independent of political interests. A lengthy criticism of Stonewall's 'Tuned Out' report followed, and the email ended by saying that the perception that the BBC deliberately ignore or misrepresent a sizeable section of society is inaccurate, when the full breadth of BBC output is examined.

However I wanted to know if future editions of the SoPP would explicitly mention 'sexual orientation' in the text. So I wrote back on 23 May with a reply to their email giving many specific examples of anti-gay discrimination and non-inclusiveness, together with a request that the BBC simply agree to my suggestion, which as I explained would help to ensure that this type of injustice is put right as soon as possible.

I'm waiting to hear back to see if they agree.