BBC upholds complaint against Martine Croxall over ‘pregnant people’ change
Guardian1 day
BBC Upholds Complaints Against Croxall Over Correction of 'Pregnant People'
Above: BBC Broadcasting House at Portland Place in London, U.K., on Aug. 8, 2025. Image copyright: Mike Kemp/In Pictures/Getty Images
The Spin
Right narrative
The BBC’s reprimand of Martine Croxall for correcting “pregnant people” to “women” and raising an eyebrow is Orwellian policing of ordinary speech. By punishing her for stating biological reality, the broadcaster elevates ideology over fact, undermining women’s rights and eroding protections in maternity care, single-sex spaces and public discourse. This ruling shows how far the BBC is captured by activist agendas, silencing women’s voices under the guise of impartiality.
Left narrative
The BBC rightly upheld complaints against Martine Croxall for altering a quoted script from “pregnant people” to “women.” Presenters must read sources verbatim rather than insert personal interpretation. Her eyebrow raise gave the impression of expressing a personal view on a controversial matter, undermining the network's aim for impartiality. Maintaining strict neutrality is crucial, particularly on sensitive trans-inclusive issues, to protect audience trust and avoid promoting ideological bias.
© 2025 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.17.2
© 2025 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 6.17.2