Good Morning Britain receives Ofcom complaints over Richard Madeley interview with Sage scientist

Good Morning Britain has been hit with a series of Ofcom complaints following an interaction between Richard Madeley and scientist Professor Susan Michie.

The broadcasting watchdog has confirmed that 145 viewers complained about Monday’s interview with the Sage scientist, with Madeley’s questioning being deemed inappropriate.

Michie appeared on the early morning programme to discuss the benefits of wearing facemasks after the end of lockdown.

Richard Madeley on This Morning (Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)
Richard Madeley on This Morning (Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)

In the midst of the discussion, Madeley stunted the interview in order to ask Michie about her affiliation with the Communist Party, and if that affected her viewpoint.

When Michie tried to brush it off and continue discussing her work as a scientist, Madeley persisted: “If your politics informs your sense of control, it’s not just a medical argument, but you have a political bent to want the state to tell people what to do.”

Michie then told him: “I’ve come on your programme as a scientist, as do all people who come onto your programme as scientists.

"They come on to talk about the evidence, the relevant theories, how we approach scientific disciplines, and you don’t ask other scientists about politics.

Richard Madeley in debate on This Morning (ITV)
Richard Madeley in debate on This Morning (ITV)

“I’m very happy to speak about science, which is what my job is, and to leave it at that.”

Despite the straightforward statement ending the question, Madeley persisted again, causing Michie to add: “I’m saying that I agreed to come on this programme as a scientist and I’m very happy to talk to you about the issues you’re raising as a scientist, which is the same as other scientists that you invite onto the programme.”

Professor Michie on This Morning (ITV)
Professor Michie on This Morning (ITV)

Madeley told her that her reaction was a “perfectly fair answer” before the conversation continued without discussion.

However, viewers backed her up claiming it was unfair and sexist.

Michie also tweeted after the interview: “A complaint has been submitted and a public apology requested”.

Yahoo has contacted Good Morning Britain for comment.

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