Channel 4 has defended its decision to broadcast a documentary about the death of Diana, Princess of Wales, after receiving a letter of complaint from the private secretaries to Princes William and Harry. The broadcaster's director of television and content, Kevin Lygo, responded to Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton, explaining the unusual circumstances that led to an offer of a preview screening.
Lygo stated that Channel 4's policy is not to grant advance screenings, except in exceptional circumstances, to protect editorial independence. However, due to misleading press reports claiming the programme contained explicit and distressing images of the crash, the broadcaster made an unprecedented offer for the Princes' representatives to view the film. This was intended to allow them to verify that no images of the dying Princess were included.
The letter emphasised that the preview was offered as a courtesy, and that requests concerning editorial content were unexpected. Lygo explained that standard procedure for sensitive programmes involves viewing with the producer present, not providing a tape, to facilitate discussion of concerns. The broadcaster regretted any distress caused by press coverage but argued the documentary serves a public interest by shedding light on the crash's aftermath through non-explicit photographs and eyewitness accounts.
Lygo asserted that the programme, produced by ITN Factual, is a responsible piece of public interest journalism that does not disrespect Diana's memory. He noted that ITN's chief executive, Mark Wood, supports its broadcast. The documentary aims to counter conspiracy theories and provide an accurate record of an event of international importance.
