A study by Cardiff University has found that a larger proportion of frequent GB News viewers wrongly believe net migration to the UK is increasing compared to viewers of other major channels. The research, seen by the Guardian, examined public attitudes towards broadcasting impartiality.
The study found that 84% of frequent GB News viewers think net migration has risen, despite official figures showing it nearly halved to 431,000 last year. This compares to 71% of ITV viewers, 62% of BBC viewers, and 51% of Channel 4 audiences who hold the same mistaken belief.
The research also revealed that 51% of the public oppose politicians being allowed to present current affairs programmes, with only 29% supporting the current rules. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy commented that the public are “right to be concerned about elected politicians playing the role of news presenters”.
This contradicts Ofcom’s own research, which concluded there was “no consensus” for preventing politicians hosting TV and radio shows. Ofcom is currently consulting on minor changes to broadcasting rules but has no plans to stop politicians presenting shows overall.
Professor Stephen Cushion of Cardiff University urged Ofcom to re-examine the issue. The study also found that trust in broadcast news remains relatively high at 49%, compared to just 7% for social media, with the BBC being the most trusted broadcaster.
