BBC Complaints...

From: info@bbc.co.uk [mailto:info@bbc.co.uk]
Sent: 16 March 2009 13:05
Subject: BBC Complaints [T20090228010SS060]

Thank you for your e-mail call.

We're sorry if you feel the BBC has 'promoted' U2 unfairly recently. We take extreme care in making decisions about how we may feature popular artists in our output and in a manner that is editorially justifiable and also accessible to our audiences, especially when the timing coincides with the release of a new album, book or film.

In the case of our coverage of U2 we don't agree with the suggestion that the BBC allowed itself to be used as a commercial vehicle to promote their new album.

It's not uncommon for major artists to appear on different BBC shows and networks wherever it is editorially appropriate. Each appearance or feature on a programme will be judged on its own merits. U2 are one of the world's most popular bands who have a diverse fanbase and we reflected this in our content.
Whilst our audiences like to be kept informed about news in the arts and music world we are careful to ensure all appearances are editorially justified and do not give undue prominence to any product.

All the programmes featuring U2 had a clear editorial justification and had to adhere to the BBC editorial guidelines in relation to the need to avoid undue prominence.

Please be assured, however, that we have registered your comments on our audience log. This is the internal report of audience feedback which we compile daily for all programme makers and commissioning executives within the BBC, and also their senior management. It ensures that your points, and all other comments we receive, are circulated and considered across the BBC.

Once again, thank you for taking the time to contact us.

Regards

BBC Complaints
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www.bbc.co.uk/complaints