The f-word on the BBC

[bibblebub]

In today's news on the BBC they are showing that flash mobbing of the ACAS talks between BA and the UNITE union; the video shows the union leader facing the protesters and you can clearly hear him telling one of them to f-off a couple of times.

Have we reached the point where the f-word is now acceptable on tv at any time? I personally don't like it, it's bad enough hearing strangers saying it when one is out and about without having it invading one's home. One usually knows that it's likely to be said during certain types of programs and can so choose to watch then or not, but the news? I don't think so and won't be surprised if the BBC get lots of complaints about it.

[bibblebub]

Please excuse the ragged English in the question, Sunday morning with a hangover is never the easiest circumstance to put something into writing.

[bibblebub]

I've asked for this question to be removed because the f-word isn't used in the clip - as I discovered when I saw it again (blooming hangovers - who'd have 'em?)

So the whole basis for the question is completely and utterly wrong.

[bibblebub]

yes, I spluttered apoplectically causing my monocle to fall into my Earl Grey

(pls Ed hurry up and remove this question)

[Gromit]

Answering on the basis it was there, I think an unedited version with swear word should be broadcast on the news after the 9pm watershed.

It is possible that the clip you originally saw did have the swear word, and the audio has been edited.

We tend to have a hypocritical view of what our news should be. We want it santised. If a madman detonates himself in a crowded foreign Market, we get to see ambulances, but not the full horror of dead people. That way, it is easily forgotten.