The programs in which viewers were misled included 'Comic Relief', and 'Children in Need.' Two of the BBC's shining jewels, trusted by millions who hand over their hard-earned cash in the [apparently] misguided notion that it was given to worthwhile causes. The official regulatory agency, labeled "Ofcom" found the BBC guilty for cheating in a sickening total of eight different programs on both TV and radio.
In some cases, Producers had taken “pre-meditated decisions” to air competitions they knew the audience had no chance of winning -- Some were pre-recorded and BBC staff were used to play the 'winners.' The one redeeming detail, apparently, is that the BBC made no money from this entire sickening ploy.
The BBC has said it accepts the findings, and "we are putting in place an unprecedented action plan to tackle the issues raised."...Which I can guarantee will not include the firing, blaming or even demotion of the chinless, in-bred yuppies responsible. And this isn't even the first time they've done it! Last July, Ofcom imposed a $100k fine for similar stupidity on “Blue Peter,” - one of the most beloved shows in the entire history of British TV.
Their press release continues with this shining example of the kind of witless arrogance that comes from 60+ years as a virtual monopoly with guaranteed funding; "Audience research suggests the comprehensive action we have taken is rebuilding the trust of viewers and listeners."
Call me crazy if you must, but I'd say the best way to earn the confidence of those who are held at legislative gun-point to provide your $6B+ annual budget is to not cheat and deceive them in the first place?! What do you think, dear Reader?
