GB News has intensified its dispute with media regulator Ofcom, accusing the body of unfairly withholding data that it says reveals higher viewer trust in the channel compared to the BBC. The broadcaster has threatened to escalate the matter by involving Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy if the regulator does not provide the relevant correspondence.
The controversy centers on an Ofcom survey measuring viewer perceptions of trustworthiness across major UK broadcasters. According to GB News, the findings indicate its audience rates the channel as more trustworthy than the BBC, Sky News, ITV, and Channel 4. The channel's viewers also reportedly placed GB News above all other national broadcasters for the diversity of viewpoints, with GB News tying with Sky News for impartiality.
Angelos Frangopoulos, chief executive of GB News, wrote to Ofcom expressing concerns that the regulator is failing to apply a consistent and transparent approach to its research findings. He suggested that the omission of these positive metrics points to bias against his channel and alleged preferential treatment being afforded to other broadcasters. Frangopoulos requested that Ofcom forward his communications to Culture Secretary Nandy and indicated he would contact her directly should the regulator not comply.
An Ofcom spokesperson responded by emphasizing the complexity of interpreting survey results obtained through varying methodologies. The regulator highlighted its commitment to conducting impartial, evidence-based research and stated it takes steps to prevent data from being misrepresented.
The dispute unfolds amid ongoing government efforts to develop policies intended to support and safeguard British news outlets. GB News's challenge to Ofcom raises questions about how trust and impartiality metrics are reported and used in regulatory and policy discussions surrounding media standards.