BBC apology over Thought for the Day xenophobia remark

The BBC apologised after a Thought for the Day segment quoted criticism of Robert Jenrick's asylum remarks as xenophobia and sparked a wider debate.

BBC apologises for Thought for the Day xenophobia remark

The BBC has apologised after a segment of Radio 4 Thought for the Day was retrospectively edited following criticism from Krish Kandiah, head of the Sanctuary Foundation, who described Robert Jenrick's asylum comments as xenophobia. Kandiah referenced remarks from the Mail on Sunday and argued that many arrivals are fleeing war and persecution, not a threat. The BBC said it removed some of Kandiah's language in the online version because it was not appropriate for the faith based radio slot.

Jenrick issued a sharp response on social media, saying those who fear migrants are being labeled as racist, and he argued that the debate reflects concerns about crime and safety. Alf Dubs, the Labour peer and former refugee, said xenophobia is a fair description of the rhetoric used by some politicians. The exchange comes amid rising tensions over asylum accommodation and protests outside hotels housing migrants. The programme Thought for the Day is cleared by two BBC staff, but editors decided to review and adjust language after broadcast, a step described by the BBC as necessary to keep faith programming non political while still addressing fear in society.

This episode highlights how religious programming walks a fine line between moral reflection and political debate. The BBC's decision to edit language after a pre cleared piece shows a cautious approach to avoid inflaming audience segments while still allowing a discussion about fear and welcome. It also raises questions about editorial control in a slot that has no right of reply, making the balance between openness and responsibility particularly delicate.

Beyond the BBC, the incident underlines how asylum policy has become a live issue in public life, influencing journalists, lawmakers and civil society. Reactions from politicians and refugee advocates reveal a fractured discourse where fear and humanity collide. The episode will likely shape how future faith based broadcasts handle references to immigration, crime and social cohesion, with implications for trust in media and for the treatment of migrants in public debate.

Highlights

The incident leaves the BBC watching closely how faith based dialogue navigates policy driven controversy.