1) I’ve been largely off Twitter over Christmas. But I see the BBC’s critics from left and right are still here. It is of course legitimate to criticise and debate the BBC and it’s a fact of life. But . . .
2) While impartiality is difficult and we will make mistakes trying, it is a really important and laudable goal. Most media takes a position and looks at issues through that prism. We try and offer something different and valuable: fair coverage without fear or favour. .
3) Of course critics will say we aren’t impartial, allege that we favour one side or take orders from political masters. The people who work at the BBC know this to be untrue. They don’t deserve the vilification and accusations of bad faith they get.
4) So, even if you want to criticise the BBC, please think about the good that our aspiration to impartiality brings. Without it we would end up largely with echo chambers. We’d be worse off. It’s a good thing!
5) There’s so much to love about the BBC way beyond news and politics. I am proud to work for it and with fantastic colleagues. Whatever Twitter critics say, millions of viewers and citizens love the BBC too. Here’s hoping more of those people @ me in 2020!
