BBC Breakfast presenter Naga Munchetty interrupted a guest on Thursday's show after she made a comment the host deemed 'patronising'. The incident occurred during a discussion about medicine shortages, specifically epilepsy drugs.
Claire Pelham from the Epilepsy Society and pharmacist Thorrun Govind appeared on the programme to discuss the shortage. When Pelham advised patients to 'keep calm and plan ahead', Munchetty interjected: 'That sounds patronising.'
Pelham quickly apologised, saying 'Sorry, sorry.' Munchetty explained that telling someone with epilepsy to keep calm could be problematic, as stress and anxiety are known triggers for seizures. Pelham agreed and elaborated on the importance of planning ahead to avoid running out of medication.
The exchange comes amid concerns over shortages of various medicines, including those for asthma, ADHD, and diabetes. Epilepsy affects over half a million people in the UK, many of whom require daily medication.
