03 August 2023 , 09:23
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The BBC has apologised after presenter Sally Nugent sparked anger after labelling the heroic Dambusters Raid ‘infamous’ live on air.
Viewers piled onto social media complaining about her comment, accusing her of disrespecting the military operation. The deadly raid, an attack on German dams carried out in May 1943 by 617 Squadron RAF Bomber Command, involved 133 brave aircrew. While on BBC Breakfast alongside colleague Jon Kay, Sally discussed the World War II flypast and referenced bombers who had been in the mission. Her turn of phrase was no well received with the corporation later issuing an on-air correction on the same day, followed by an apology on the BBC's website.
She said on the show: "Eighty years after 19 Lancaster bombers took part in the infamous Dambusters Raid, tonight a special anniversary flypast will take place over Lincolnshire." The use of the word 'infamous' provoked an angry response, with the strong and resonant term associated with negative and disreputable events or people. The BBC has now posted a correction on the its complaints website and apologised for the remark.
She triggered outrage for describing heroic Dambusters Raid as ‘infamous’ (BBC)It reads: "When highlighting what was coming up on the programme, we did inadvertently refer to the Dambusters Raid as 'infamous'. Later, when the main item aired, we referred to the 'famous' raid. In live programmes, such as Breakfast, errors do occasionally slip through, and we're sorry for this mistake, and any offence caused."
Sally's comment was also assessed by the BBC's Executive Complaints Unit. A spokesperson said: "The ECU assessed the complaint against the standards for due accuracy and impartiality set out in the BBC editorial guidelines The ECU agreed the original broadcast was not duly accurate.
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"Though the raid is not without its critics, the use of the word 'infamous', with its strongly negative connotations, was not appropriate. But the ECU found no evidence the phrase was deliberately chosen for its adverse implications, rather than being used inadvertently, or that it reflected the presenter's personal view.
"There was therefore no breach of the guidelines on impartiality." They added that they believe the BBC's apology was "sufficient to resolve the issue without the need for further action by BBC management".
The raid was an extraordinary mix of meticulous planning, brilliant science, clever strategy, skilful flying and proper old fashioned courage. This year events are taking place to commemorate the 80th anniversary. Eight out of the 19 bombers involved were shot down. Three men were captured, and 53 were killed.
Commanding officer of the BBMF, Sqd Ldr Mark Sugden, said: "The Dambusters Raid was one of the most audacious raids in the history of the Royal Air Force, and we at the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight are proud to commemorate the bravery, dedication and sacrifice of all those involved."