BBC director general Tim Davie has said journalists are not allowed to wear Black Lives Matter T-shirts in the newsroom, as part of the corporation's commitment to impartiality. Speaking at the Sunday Times Culture Interview Forum at the Cheltenham Literature Festival, Davie said that while the BBC stands firmly against racism, the Black Lives Matter campaign is political and it would be inappropriate for journalists covering the issue to be seen campaigning.
Davie compared the ban to other rules, stating that journalists cannot carry a Kamala Harris mug during the US election or make assumptions about colleagues' political views. He emphasised that 'your religion is journalism in the BBC' and that staff must leave their personal politics at the door.
The director general acknowledged that some newer employees struggle with the concept of impartiality, saying 'it has not been an easy thing to get done this, and we wrestle with it every day.' He described hatred in society as 'utterly abhorrent' but maintained that the BBC must remain neutral.
A BBC spokesperson told the Daily Mail that under the corporation's guidelines, staff must remain independent from government initiatives, campaigners, charities and their agendas, regardless of how worthy the cause. The broadcaster does not endorse campaigns but plays an important role in raising awareness through its work.
Non-journalist staff working outside news, current affairs and factual journalism are allowed to attend marches or demonstrations in their own time, provided they are not representing the BBC.
