BBC explains xenophobia remarks apology

A Thought for the Day remark labeled Robert Jenrick xenophobic, prompting a BBC apology.

BBC apologises after Robert Jenrick accused of xenophobia

The BBC apologised after a contributor on Radio 4 Thought for the Day described Robert Jenrick as xenophobic in relation to his immigration comments. Kandiah cited a Jenrick article in which he said he would not want his daughters living near 'men from backward countries who broke into Britain illegally and about whom you know next to nothing'.

Jenrick responded by saying listeners had been told that if you're concerned about the threat of illegal migrants to your kids, you're racist. The BBC said Kandiah's message was broadly in line with Thought for the Day expectations, but some of the language used went beyond that and they apologise for its inclusion.

This incident shows how language in public radio can spark debate while testing the boundaries between critique and harm. It highlights the tension between addressing policy concerns about immigration and avoiding terms that stoke xenophobia. It also raises questions about the responsibilities of Thought for the Day contributors and the broadcaster in shaping a religious or moral commentary that informs rather than entrenches division.

Highlights

Language is persuasive power in public life, and broadcasters must guard against harm even when sparking important debate.