BBC Debate

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Alison Seabeck Excerpts
Monday 12th November 2012

(12 years ago)

Commons Chamber
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Maria Miller Portrait Maria Miller
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My hon. Friend is right: there are individuals who perhaps want to examine their consciences and ensure that, where appropriate, they apologise.

Alison Seabeck Portrait Alison Seabeck (Plymouth, Moor View) (Lab)
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There are two strands to today’s discussion—that it is vital that the victims of abuse feel confident that if they come forward their cases will be considered, and that the BBC, whether it be local radio, drama or children’s programmes, is a national treasure. Can the Secretary of State say with confidence that she feels that the Trust fully understands that, apart from changing personnel, there is an issue around the ethos of the BBC that needs serious consideration, including the messages sent to the public about the golden goodbyes?

Maria Miller Portrait Maria Miller
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The hon. Lady is right to ensure that we always keep to the fore the situation of children who have been victims of abuse. I am sure she has read Lord Patten’s words that he fully understands the issue with the ethos of the organisation—something that he made clear when he was appointed.