The BBC has faced criticism from scientists for interviewing Dr Aseem Malhotra, a cardiologist who claimed certain Covid vaccines could be linked to excess deaths from coronary artery disease. Experts accused him of pushing 'extreme fringe' views that are 'misguided' and 'dangerous', potentially misleading the public.
During an interview on the BBC News Channel about new statin guidance, Malhotra cited British Heart Foundation (BHF) figures showing over 30,000 excess heart disease deaths since Covid arrived. He claimed mRNA vaccines play a role, calling for a suspension of the rollout pending an inquiry. The BHF, however, said Covid infections were a significant factor early in the pandemic, but ambulance delays and inaccessible care are now key causes.
Professor Peter Openshaw of Imperial College London, who was also interviewed, said BBC staff seemed 'alarmed and embarrassed' by Malhotra's appearance. Dr Stephen Griffin, a virologist at the University of Leeds, expressed astonishment that the BBC allowed Malhotra to 'hijack' the interview. Professor Marc Dweck of the University of Edinburgh called Malhotra's views 'dangerous' and urged the BBC to better vet its guests.
The BBC defended its decision, stating Malhotra was invited to discuss statins and made 'unprompted claims' about vaccines. It then interviewed Professor Openshaw to rebut those claims. Malhotra, who has previously promoted vaccine hesitancy, told the Guardian that discussing new developments is difficult due to a 'complicit media'.
