Reality TV
Jowell: CBB is "presenting racism as entertainment"
Published Thursday, Jan 18 2007, 17:26 GMT | By James Welsh
Culture secretary Tessa Jowell has said that Celebrity Big Brother is "presenting racism as entertainment."
"They have received an enormous number of complaints," Jowell told reporters outside a media conference in Oxford. "I hope now these complaints will be properly investigated by Ofcom as the regulator. These are not judgements for me as secretary of state. I don't think anyone wants to live in a country where the politicians decide what is shown on television. I don't think that is something for Channel 4 to feel pressured into doing. I'm disappointed that we've got to this position."
Jowell then added her personal opinion of the show.
"I think this is racism being presented as entertainment and I think it's disgusting."
She reiterated, however, that it remains a matter between Channel 4 and Ofcom. "The decisions about what they show is a matter for Ofcom. Channel 4 have a remit which they have an obligation to broadcast to."
"They have received an enormous number of complaints," Jowell told reporters outside a media conference in Oxford. "I hope now these complaints will be properly investigated by Ofcom as the regulator. These are not judgements for me as secretary of state. I don't think anyone wants to live in a country where the politicians decide what is shown on television. I don't think that is something for Channel 4 to feel pressured into doing. I'm disappointed that we've got to this position."
Jowell then added her personal opinion of the show.
"I think this is racism being presented as entertainment and I think it's disgusting."
She reiterated, however, that it remains a matter between Channel 4 and Ofcom. "The decisions about what they show is a matter for Ofcom. Channel 4 have a remit which they have an obligation to broadcast to."
More: Reality TV, Celebrity Big Brother
Related Stories
Tube Talk
TV's Biggest Bitches: Friday FiverOur picks for the five biggest bitches on both sides of the Atlantic.
TV Interviews
Apprentice Gabrielle 'was easy target'Digital Spy talks to Gabrielle Omar about being too nice for the show.
TV Ratings
Grandma's House rises for final episodeLong Lost Family's resilience helps ITV score another primetime victory.
TV Recaps
'Homeland' finale: Have your sayHomeland's incredible finale is reviewed by Digital Spy. Share your verdict.
