TV and film industry letter accuses BBC of antisemitism

The Apprentice contestant Asif Munaf received “specialist training” from the broadcaster over his social media posts, which he apologised for in March.

The same month, BBC director general Tim Davie told MPs some tweets by BBC Arabic staff were “unacceptable”, and maintained that the broadcaster was “acting fairly and judiciously”.

But the letter’s signatories claimed “many Jewish staff have felt let down by the BBC”.

Former Panorama producer Neil Grant said: “When Jews tell you they feel antisemitism, don’t question it or define it for us.

“Simply, Jews don’t count inside the BBC. When we present compelling evidence of the BBC’s institutionalised antisemitism, signed by over 200 colleagues, we expect to be listened to and not gaslit especially by the BBC Board who won’t even formally discuss our concerns.”

The BBC said its chairman had responded to the letter directly.

A spokeswoman said: “It is a great concern to us if anyone does not feel supported at work and we have well-established and robust processes in place to handle any concerns or complaints raised with us confidentially.

“We have highlighted these to the signatories of the letter. As an organisation, we stand united against any form of abuse, prejudice or intolerance.

“Editorially, we are committed to the highest standards of impartiality in our journalism and in a small number of cases where there have been mistakes we have acknowledged this. Where staff conduct has fallen below expectations, we have taken action.”