Ofcom, Britain’s media regulator, warned television channel GB News that it might face punishment after a show featuring Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in February violated impartiality standards.
Founded in 2021, the right-leaning TV station has positioned itself as a disruptor. It employs several Conservative MPs and is financially supported by hedge fund millionaire Paul Marshall.
Over 500 individuals complained about an hour-long live Q&A session with Sunak that aired on February 12.
Ofcom stated on Monday that the broadcast violated impartiality guidelines by failing to offer a diverse variety of perspectives.
The regulator said it considered the rule break to be “serious” and noted GB News had already breached rules twice.
It will now consider a statutory sanction against GB News and make a decision on what action to take within 60 working days. Punishments could include a fine, making GB News broadcast a correction or even suspending or revoking its licence.
GB News said Ofcom’s decision was “an alarming development” aimed at stopping the public questioning politicians directly.
“The regulator’s threat to punish a news organisation with sanctions for enabling people to challenge their own prime minister strikes at the heart of democracy,” GB News said in a statement published on its website.
