BBC Faces Backlash Over Martine Croxall’s “Pregnant People” Correction

The BBC’s handling of complaints regarding presenter Martine Croxall has sparked significant debate after the broadcaster initially dismissed concerns about her live correction of the term “pregnant people” to “women.” This incident, which occurred during a June 2023 broadcast, has highlighted ongoing tensions surrounding discussions of transgender identity within the organization.

In a communication seen by Deadline, the BBC’s Executive Complaints Unit (ECU) ruled on October 12, 2023, that Croxall had violated impartiality guidelines by altering her autocue. The unit acknowledged that Croxall’s change was intended for clarity but concluded it inadvertently conveyed a personal viewpoint on a contentious issue. The initial response from the BBC dismissed viewer complaints, stating that the change was “in no way meant to be disrespectful” and aligned with the broadcaster’s editorial standards.

The ECU ultimately decided to take the complaints seriously after receiving approximately 20 submissions regarding Croxall’s on-air expression, which some viewers interpreted as one of “disgust, ridicule, contempt or exasperation.” The unit characterized her expression as “exasperation” and noted that it, combined with her script change, suggested a bias in relation to the current discussions surrounding transgender identity. The ruling emphasized that such perceptions fell short of the BBC’s expectations for impartiality among its presenters.

Public reaction to the ECU’s verdict has been mixed. Notable figures such as Piers Morgan criticized the ruling, stating, “The BBC expects a female presenter to use the words ‘pregnant people’ about pregnant WOMEN, and then reprimands her when she rolls her eyes?! Pathetic.” Former BBC News anchor Simon McCoy echoed this sentiment, labeling the decision as “utterly ridiculous” and defending Croxall as a “top newsreader.”

Internal discontent has also surfaced within the BBC. Insiders have suggested that Croxall may have grounds for legal action against the corporation, with one senior figure remarking, “We tell viewers that men are women, but they complain about a face.” Critics within the organization argue that the ruling would bolster claims that the BBC has been unduly influenced by a pro-trans agenda. Conversely, some employees expressed support for the ECU’s decision, asserting that upholding the complaint was necessary to maintain integrity in reporting.

The incident has drawn further attention due to India Willoughby, a transgender television presenter who lodged a complaint against Croxall. Willoughby contended that Croxall’s comment reflected her “own gender critical beliefs” and effectively marginalized trans individuals in a health context. During the original broadcast, Croxall cited research from Dr Malcolm Mistry of the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, who stated that “pregnant people” faced increased health risks during heatwaves. Croxall stated, “Malcolm Mistry, who was involved in the research, says that the aged, pregnant people… women… and those with pre-existing health conditions need to take precautions.”

The controversy surrounding Croxall’s correction comes amid broader discussions about the BBC’s editorial stance on gender identity. A dossier shared with the BBC board has accused the corporation of being “captured by a small group of people” promoting a pro-trans agenda. This document was authored by Michael Prescott, an independent advisor to the BBC’s Editorial Guidelines and Standards Committee.

As the BBC navigates this contentious issue, the implications of the ECU’s ruling may extend beyond Croxall. It raises important questions about the balance between editorial impartiality and respect for diverse identities in broadcasting. The ongoing conversation will likely continue to evolve as societal views on gender identity change and as the BBC reassesses its editorial guidelines to reflect these shifts.