The BBC respond re my Gerry Adams complaint

Finally I have had a response to my compliant about Gerry Adams being the chosen expert voice to comment on the Queen's upcoming visit to Ireland. My original complaint was made on 5th March and followed up on 14th March. Here's the BBC's latest response:

'Dear 5 Live listener



CAS-686637



Thank you for your further e-mail regarding BBC Radio 5 Live broadcast on 4 March 2011.



Firstly I’d like to apologise for the delay in our reply. Please be assured your concerns were raised with the relevant editorial staff.



We must stress that the BBC makes no editorial comment or judgement on the views expressed by Mr Adams or any public figure whose opinions feature in our news coverage or programmes.



Although some people believe that a programme or news bulletin should not allow certain figures or groups to air their views, we feel that it’s better to include many viewpoints wherever possible. This may include hearing opinions which some people may personally disagree with and we recognise your views on Mr Adams and his role in the Northern Ireland conflict.



To provide some context, this very brief contribution (18 seconds long) was heard during a summary bulletin providing one aspect of reaction to the Queen’s visit. During very short bulletins such as this, we often only have time to use one clip. This was the only occasion on this date that in covering the story we used Gerry Adams in a news bulletin.



During the rest of our coverage in programmes – ‘5 Live Drive’ for example - and bulletins, many other Irish perspectives were heard, from journalists, academics and politicians alike. ‘5 Live Drive’ heard from our Royal Correspondent Peter Hunt who put Mr Adam’s views into context, detailing the majority of the Irish population’s opposition to his take on the visit.



As previously mentioned, we have a duty to reflect all relevant views when discussing a subject and Mr Adams represented opposition to the visit at that time. Some of his views are also shared by a section of the Irish population, albeit small.



We strive to cover subjects with due impartiality, across our coverage and over time. We therefore believe we reported on the Queen’s visit and the reaction in Ireland in a fair, accurate and impartial manner.



Should you now wish to proceed to the second stage of the complaints process, it's now open to you to write to the Director of BBC News:



HelenBoadenComplaints@bbc.co.uk



Helen Boaden

Director

BBC News

Room 5601

Television Centre

Wood Lane

London W12 7RJ



Should you choose to escalate your complaint our procedures stipulate you do so within 20 days of receiving this correspondence.



Thanks again for taking the time to contact us.



Regards,



Liam Boyle



Senior Complaints Advisor for News and Current Affairs

BBC Audience Services'

I was going to respond but I have had a response to another complaint that I feel deserves more of my time... More about that tomorrow!