Donald Trump's Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt accused the BBC of spreading false information, calling the broadcaster "100 per cent fake news" after footage involving the President was allegedly doctored.
British commentator Lizzie Cundy also attacked the BBC during a GB News segment, arguing that listeners should not be forced to pay for what she described as repeated failures by the network.
"People want choice, people want freedom, and people certainly don't want to be misled and lied to, especially when they're being forced to pay £174.50."
Cundy questioned the value of the license fee, emphasizing that many citizens are refusing to pay. She stated that 300,000 people have stopped making payments and that around 50,000 prosecutions are currently ongoing.
"Is the BBC worth that? People don't want this anymore."
Commentators noted the BBC has faced a series of controversies, from the alleged Trump video manipulation to previous incidents affecting its credibility. Cundy summed up the frustration of viewers by highlighting the broadcaster’s pattern of repeated missteps.
"We've had fiasco after fiasco after fiasco. What's happening with Trump right now is globally humiliating for the BBC."
The White House has continued its dispute with the BBC, reinforcing its stance that the broadcaster’s reporting lacks integrity. The criticism reflects growing public and political dissatisfaction with mandatory funding for national media organizations.
Author’s summary: Mounting criticism targets the BBC for alleged misinformation and repeated missteps, sparking debate over its funding and credibility among UK audiences.