Good Morning Britain has received over 500 Ofcom complaints after Susanna Reid's comments about Scotland's World Cup bank holiday left viewers furious. The regulator confirmed 508 complaints regarding the episode broadcast on 9 June.
Comments Spark Outrage
During the discussion, Ed Balls and co-presenter Susanna Reid talked about Scotland being granted a bank holiday for qualifying for the World Cup. Ed told viewers: "This morning, in our five o'clock meeting, Susanna said, 'I can't believe this, the game's on the Sunday morning, and they get bank holiday [more than] 24 hours later.'"
Susanna remarked: "It's really outrageous. I mean, how long does it take Scots to get over the fact that they've played their first match?" The comments provoked anger, with viewers accusing her of being anti-Scottish.
Viewer Reactions
One viewer fumed: "So many anti-Scottish comments from your presenters and guests this morning. Do you realise your show is shown on Scottish television? Unfortunately." Another criticised: "Extremely anti-Scottish. Not everyone is getting it, and not everyone wants it." A third added: "Jumping on the anti-Scotland bandwagon, I see."
ITV Statement
ITV issued a statement saying: "The editorial team feel discussion of the fact that some football fans would be drinking alcohol while watching the match is something that would be referenced in the discussion of any home nation's participation in an international tournament. No sleight was intended toward Scottish fans in particular – it was more a reflection of football watching culture in the UK."
The statement continued: "We're aware this coverage has been distorted on social media by brief edited clips that do not represent the full four-minute discussion. Having reviewed the full segments, our feeling is that the issue of drinking and football would have been raised in a discussion of any home nation having an extra day off work following a game. We do note, however, that such discussions can play into national stereotypes. This was not the intention."
Apology Issued
Susanna later apologised on air, saying: "My Scottish ancestors would be turning in their graves, I can only apologise. Let me say, it's outrageous that not everyone in Scotland has got today off as a bank holiday." Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV1 and ITVX.
