We have today imposed a financial penalty of £25,000 on religious satellite channel Loveworld, after our investigation found it broke our broadcasting rules.
During two episodes of a current affairs programme, Full Disclosure, the presenters made a number of unevidenced, materially misleading and potentially harmful statements about the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic and vaccines, which were broadcast without providing adequate protection for viewers.
We have made it clear that it is legitimate for broadcasters to discuss and scrutinise the Government’s public health response to the pandemic – including the potential side effects of vaccinations – and that it may be in the public interest to do so.
However, Loveworld’s presentation of misleading claims without sufficient challenge or context risked causing serious potential harm to viewers, at a time when people were particularly likely to be seeking reliable information relating to the UK’s vaccination programme.
We previously directed Loveworld not to repeat the programmes, and to broadcast a summary of our decision. Given the seriousness of the breaches, we also consider a further statutory sanction is warranted. Loveworld must pay a financial penalty of £25,000, which will be passed on to HM Treasury.
The level of fine reflects, among other things, the proactive steps that the channel has since taken to ensure future compliance with our rules.