Anti-monarchy group calls for end to “BBC bias” in reporting of the royal family

By News Reporters

A group calling for an elected head of state and an end to any constitutional role for the royal family held a demonstration outside the BBC’s Broadcasting House in central London this morning.

Anti-monarchy group Republic called the protest in response to what they say is the BBC’s continued bias in reporting of the royal family.

Republic are organising a number of protests to coincide with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations in June 2012. “Throughout the weekend of the 2012 jubilee celebrations republicans will be protesting against inherited power and privilege and calling for the abolition of the monarchy,” say Republic.

In a statement Graham Smith of Republic explained why they called this morning’s demonstration outside Broadcasting House in Portland Place:

As we approach the jubilee it’s crucial we continue to challenge the BBC’s reporting and demand they show balance in their coverage.  It’s not just about interviewing republicans – although they do need to reflect the views on the 20 to 25 percent of people who want the monarchy gone – it’s about ensuring all reporting is done impartially and sensibly.  They’re there to report for all of us, not to join in with royal celebrations.

The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations will centre around an extended weekend in 2012 on 2, 3, 4 and 5 June. The late May bank holiday has been moved to Monday 4 June 2012 and an additional Jubilee bank holiday will take place on Tuesday 5 June 2012.