Sir Cliff Richard is reportedly preparing to sue the BBC over a news report about Jimmy Savile's sex crimes that included the singer's name. The BBC News at Six segment on February 25 featured a clip of Savile saying 'Cliff Richard' as part of a report on Dame Janet Smith's investigation into abuse at the corporation.
According to an internal BBC email seen by The Sun, the libel complaint argues that the inclusion of the clip was defamatory, causing viewers to believe there were missed opportunities to apprehend Sir Cliff for wrongdoing. The singer has warned the BBC that any further use of the clip could prompt legal action.
Sir Cliff, 75, was investigated by police in 2014 over historical sex abuse allegations but faced no charges. The BBC faced criticism for its live broadcast outside his home during the police search. Dame Janet's report, which cleared the BBC of wrongdoing, did not mention Sir Cliff.
Representatives for Sir Cliff and the BBC have been contacted for comment. The BBC has reportedly instructed staff not to use the clip again.
