BBC Glastonbury Gig Sparks Outrage Did Bob Vylan Cross a Line?

Chief Rabbi Attacks BBC for Airing 'Vile Jew Hate' at Glastonbury

The United Kingdom's Chief Rabbi, Sir Ephraim Mirvis, has launched a strong attack against the BBC following the broadcast of what he describes as "vile Jew-hate" during Bob Vylan's performance at the Glastonbury Festival. The controversial incident involved the band's singer leading the crowd in chants of "death, death to the IDF [Israel Defense Forces]".

Sir Ephraim Mirvis took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his deep concern, stating: "This is a time of national shame. The airing of vile Jew-hatred at Glastonbury and the BBC's belated and mishandled response brings confidence in our national broadcaster's ability to treat antisemitism seriously to a new low." He further added, "It should trouble all decent people that now, one need only couch their outright incitement to violence and hatred as edgy political commentary, for ordinary people to not only fail to see it for what it is, but also to cheer it, chant it and celebrate it. Toxic Jew-hatred is a threat to our entire society."

The issue has quickly escalated, drawing in government officials and regulatory bodies. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy addressed the situation in Parliament, expressing her concern over the BBC's handling of the incident. She stated: "When there is one editorial failure, it is something that must be gripped; where there are several, it becomes a problem of leadership."

Nandy emphasized the government's support for the BBC but voiced disappointment over the lack of accountability regarding this and other recent issues. "The BBC is one of the most important institutions in our country and that is why it is held to the highest of standards," she added.

Bob Vylan Responds

Bob Vylan responded to the criticism via an Instagram post, claiming they were being "targeted for speaking up." He clarified: "We are not for the death of Jews, Arabs or any other race or group of people. We are for the dismantling of a violent military machine."

The band further suggested that the controversy was a distraction from larger issues, stating, "we, like those in the spotlight before us, are not the story. We are a distraction from the story, and whatever sanctions we receive will be a distraction."

BBC's Response

While the BBC did not directly address the Chief Rabbi's comments, they referenced a previous statement acknowledging the incident. The corporation stated that the "antisemitic sentiments expressed by Bob Vylan were utterly unacceptable and have no place on our airwaves."

The BBC admitted that "the team were dealing with a live situation but with hindsight we should have pulled the stream during the performance. We regret this did not happen," and announced a review of their guidelines for future live events.

Key Points from the BBC's Statement:

• Acknowledged the "antisemitic sentiments" as "utterly unacceptable."
• Regretted not pulling the live stream during the performance.
• Committed to reviewing guidelines for future live events.

Further Allegations Emerge

Adding another layer to the controversy, Bob Vylan's singer, Pascal Robinson-Foster, also spoke about a record label boss with strong pro-Israel views who allegedly urged Glastonbury to cancel Irish-language rap trio Kneecap's performance.

Andrew Gilbert, Vice-President of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, expressed his dismay, stating that he and others were "absolutely horrified and are still absolutely perplexed" by the on-stage comments and their broadcast. He criticized the BBC for not intervening and for insufficient vetting.

Police Investigation Underway

Avon and Somerset Police have launched a criminal investigation into the performances by both Bob Vylan and Kneecap at Glastonbury. A senior detective has been assigned to determine if any criminal offences were committed.

Additional Actions and Concerns:

• Both members of Bob Vylan have reportedly had their US visas revoked.
• Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy questioned why the feed wasn't immediately cut and what due diligence was performed before putting Bob Vylan on TV.

Ofcom and Parliamentary Scrutiny

Media regulator Ofcom has expressed serious concern over the live stream and is seeking further information from the BBC. The House of Commons culture, media and sport select committee has also requested details from BBC Director-General Tim Davie regarding the BBC's procedures at Glastonbury.

This incident raises crucial questions about editorial responsibility, live broadcasting protocols, and the handling of potentially offensive content by national broadcasters. The ongoing investigations and reviews will hopefully lead to improved safeguards and a renewed commitment to responsible broadcasting practices.

Tags: Glastonbury, BBC, Bob Vylan, Antisemitism, Jew hate, IDF, Sir Ephraim Mirvis, UK Rabbi, Music festival, Israel Defense Forces, Lisa Nandy, Ofcom

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c70rrld1nlpo