The BBC has announced it will no longer broadcast or live stream musical performances deemed 'high risk' following the controversial set by punk duo Bob Vylan at Glastonbury Festival. The band, who were classified as high risk before the event, led chants of 'death to the IDF' during their performance on 28 June.
In a statement, the BBC admitted it made errors in allowing the live stream to continue despite warnings. The corporation said that seven acts, including Bob Vylan, were deemed high risk but were considered suitable for live streaming with appropriate mitigations. However, the BBC acknowledged that the decision not to cut the feed during the performance was an error.
BBC Director General Tim Davie apologised, saying he 'deeply regrets' that the offensive behaviour appeared on the BBC. He emphasised that there is 'no place for antisemitism' at the corporation. The BBC is now taking disciplinary action against those directly involved in the broadcast and will provide more detailed guidance on when to withdraw a live stream.
The band, whose real name is Pascal Robinson-Foster, defended their actions, stating they have been 'targeted for speaking up' over Gaza. They denied being antisemitic, saying they are 'not for the death of Jews, Arabs or any other race' and accused the government of using them as a distraction from the conflict.
