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Politics
Jun 01, 2026
Analyzed by GPT OSS 120B

Former Ofcom Chair Michael Grade Says Broadcasters ‘Embarrassed’ by GB News’ Majority‑Focused Agenda

AI Summary
Michael Grade, the ex‑chair of Ofcom, told Politics Home that UK broadcasters are "embarrassed" by GB News because it serves the "agenda of the majority". His comments reignite debate over impartiality rules, Ofcom’s enforcement record and the future of right‑wing news in Britain.

Michael Grade, having stepped down from the regulator and reclaimed the Conservative whip in the Lords, used his newfound freedom to criticise the UK broadcasting establishment for being uncomfortable with GB News’ editorial stance.

Grade’s Public Break with Ofcom Over GB News

In an interview with Politics Home, Grade said broadcasters are “embarrassed” that a news channel openly reflects the concerns of a large segment of voters – topics such as immigration and Brexit that he claims receive insufficient coverage on the BBC. He emphasized that the same regulatory framework applies to GB News as to the BBC, Sky and ITN, and that editorial choices, not regulator‑imposed bias, drive differences in coverage.

Regulatory Landscape: No New Rules, Same Rules Applied

Grade asserted that GB News complies with existing rules, noting that “sometimes it’s only a sentence in a script.” However, Ofcom’s founding director of standards, Chris Banatvala, disputed this view, arguing that impartiality cannot be reduced to a single line of copy and that Ofcom has failed to enforce its own code consistently.

  • Grade’s claim: identical rules for all news outlets.
  • Banatvala’s rebuttal: Ofcom’s impartiality decisions show a gap between policy and practice.

Industry Reaction: From Ofcom Insiders to TV Executives

Responses ranged from criticism of Grade’s interpretation of the broadcasting code to broader concerns about GB News’ right‑wing slant. A GB News spokesperson proclaimed the channel “Britain’s No 1 news channel,” while senior TV figures argued the channel should not be allowed to broadcast if its presenters and guests predominantly reflect a right‑wing perspective. Ofcom is currently investigating a repeat airing of Donald Trump’s interview, after earlier complaints were not pursued.

What Lies Ahead for GB News and UK Media Regulation

Communications professor Steven Barnett warned that Grade’s comments amount to “rewriting the law on impartiality” and suggested that Parliament may need to intervene. With Ian Cheshire set to become Ofcom’s new chairman, observers will watch whether the regulator tightens oversight of GB News or maintains the status quo.