Now that the dust has settled a little it might be interesting to reflect on what this programme tells us about the BBC and its views towards ME.
The impression that I had was that the first 40mins or so were good. The presenter and journalist understood and empathised with the problems. Charles was allowed to give probably as good an explanation of the illness as has ever been broadcast on the BBC.
The change, when it came, was very abrupt. That's enough of that, now we have to say this. The dislocation was unnatural and seemed to be imposed by strong editorial control, rather than the natural flow of the programme. It would be interesting to know what representations were made to the BBC, what discussions took place, and who was party to any discussions during the run up period.
It seemed very obvious that Charles was blocked from making any comment on LP, or EC's research. It will be interesting to know if that was a pre-agreed condition.
The overall message I took was that ME is a serious condition, there have been no effective treatments, but don't worry guys, LP might offer hope. Public service broadcasting at its best. Who needs an advertising budget when there is the BBC?
The feeling I got, and I might be wholly wrong, was that somewhere high within the organisation there is an obstruction to proper reporting.
The impression that I had was that the first 40mins or so were good. The presenter and journalist understood and empathised with the problems. Charles was allowed to give probably as good an explanation of the illness as has ever been broadcast on the BBC.
The change, when it came, was very abrupt. That's enough of that, now we have to say this. The dislocation was unnatural and seemed to be imposed by strong editorial control, rather than the natural flow of the programme. It would be interesting to know what representations were made to the BBC, what discussions took place, and who was party to any discussions during the run up period.
It seemed very obvious that Charles was blocked from making any comment on LP, or EC's research. It will be interesting to know if that was a pre-agreed condition.
The overall message I took was that ME is a serious condition, there have been no effective treatments, but don't worry guys, LP might offer hope. Public service broadcasting at its best. Who needs an advertising budget when there is the BBC?
The feeling I got, and I might be wholly wrong, was that somewhere high within the organisation there is an obstruction to proper reporting.