BBC backlash as radio stations blasted for ‘blatant discrimination’ amid major cuts

THE BBC has been blasted for ‘blatant discrimination’ as the broadcaster makes major cuts.

It’s planning on culling a number of shows across the country as it makes cost savings.

Last month journalists at the BBC staged a 24-hour walkout in protest at the cuts.

And now, according to the Express, a number of charities have warned are calling on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to step in.

They branded the move by the Beeb as a mismanagement at a “much valued much-needed” service.

They’ve also been accused of ‘discriminating’ against the elderly, blind and disabled.

The National Federation of the Blind UK has written to Downing Street and also the BBC’s director general Tim Davie outlining their concerns.

Jonathan Safir of the National Pensioners Convention has also weighed in.

Speaking about the changes, he said: “Even though content is moving online they won’t be able to access it.”

Meanwhile, The National Union of Journalists claims the broadcaster’s plans to share shows across the network will “kill off local radio”.

Paul Siegert, the NUJ’s national broadcasting organiser, said: “To go from over 100 hours a week of local programming on every station to 40 is unacceptable.”

The BBC said there would be no overall reduction in staffing levels or funding.

A Spokesperson said: “We will ensure we keep that longstanding companionship and connections with listeners, but we also need to reflect changing audience habits by investing more in local online news.

“There would be no reduction in funding or overall staffing levels.”