Viewers of the BBC's special programme with Prime Minister Andy Burnham voiced frustration with Laura Kuenssberg's interviewing style, with some switching off during the broadcast. The 30-minute interview aired on Monday evening and marked Burnham's first major broadcast interview since taking office.
Interview topics and viewer backlash
Burnham discussed his first week at 10 Downing Street, future plans, and challenges including social care, the next Labour manifesto, and relations with President Donald Trump. While the show drew audiences to BBC One and iPlayer, several viewers expressed discontent on social media.
One viewer wrote: "I don't watch anything involving Laura Kuenssberg, these days. Can't abide her interviewing style." Another tweeted: "Jeez Kuenssberg is a terrible interviewer, constantly searching for the controversial sound bite instead of having a decent discussion. Let him explain instead of asking the same question 10 times. Btw no one gives a s**t about Trump. #burnham."
Further criticism
A third commented: "What a bore Burnham is, totally uninspiring. Kuenssberg is going through the motions but she doesn't want to push too hard otherwise she'll lose access. It's got all the hallmarks of her cosy relationship with [Boris] Johnson." Another added: "Why is Laura Kuenssberg pressing hard on Burnham to criticise Donald Trump so much? What is the point in trying to actively engineer a diplomatic incident? It's certainly not journalism."
