SNP back Gaza appeal on BBC

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2009-01-26

The SNP have confirmed that all seven of its MPs, including Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond, are backing a cross-party parliamentary motion urging the BBC to broadcast the Disasters Emergency Committee appeal for Gaza.

SNP Westminster leader, and former BBC international affairs reporter, Angus Robertson MP, said:

"With every day that passes the BBC’s defiance becomes more and more ridiculous.

"Whatever people's views on the conflict there is no doubt that international aid is of vital importance in Gaza at this time – and for the BBC to hinder that effort is totally unacceptable by a public service broadcaster.

"This appeal is not about making a political statement, it is about supporting the humanitarian work of the Red Cross, Oxfam and getting help to those who need it most.

"The recalcitrant approach of the BBC is unacceptable, and management must reconsider this unfortunate decision."

Notes:

SNP Westminster Group: Stewart Hosie MP, Angus MacNeil MP, John Mason MP, Angus Robertson MP, Alex Salmond MP, Mike Weir MP, Pete Wishart MP.

The text of the motion is as follows:

 

"That this House is astonished by the refusal of the BBC and other broadcasters not to broadcast the Disasters Emergency Committee Gaza Crisis Appeal; notes the unconvincing and incoherent explanations given by BBC spokespeople for the decision; and draws attention to the fact that people wishing to contribute to the Gaza appeal can contact the DEC by calling 0370 60 60 900, writing to DEC Gaza Crisis, PO Box 999, London EC3A 3AA or visiting www.dec.org.uk."