MP calls for debate on Channel 4's remit
Day 16, 17:09 UTC - by James Welsh
One MP has called for a debate over Channel 4's remit due to the ongoing row over Celebrity Big Brother.
Keith Vaz, MP for Leicester East, has called on the Leader of the House of Commons, Jack Straw, to schedule time for an "urgent" debate on the channel's financing.
"The Leader of the House might be aware that the number of people who have complained to Ofcom about the racist language used against Shilpa Shetty on 'Big Brother' has reached 20,000," Vaz said in the Commons this morning. "The situation is damaging our reputation abroad, especially in India. Later this afternoon, the chief executive of Channel 4, Andy Duncan, is making a plea in Oxford for more public subsidy. May we have an urgent debate on the remit and financing of Channel 4 and the responsibility of broadcasters not to broadcast racial prejudices?"
Straw called on Ofcom to act immediately and added: "I understand his concern that there should be a debate and I will do what I can to assist him."
Oh dear.
Danielle dropped by Bennetts
Day 16, 18:08 UTC - by James Welsh
Motorcycle insurance company Bennetts has terminated its modelling deal with Danielle.
All trace of Danielle has already been erased from the firm's website.
"Bennetts is strongly opposed to any form of racism and bullying and, in the light of the accusations which have been made against Miss Lloyd, has taken the decision to terminate its arrangements with her with immediate effect," a spokesperson told The Sun.
"Bennetts will no longer use Miss Lloyd for any promotional activities and will remove all promotional pictures and press materials featuring her from its website."
Aww, shame.
The Perfume Shop drops Jade's "Shh"
Day 16, 17:44 UTC - by James Welsh
The Perfume Shop has withdrawn Jade Goody's "Shh..." perfume from its stores with immediate effect.
"The Perfume Shop has decided to withdraw Jade Goody’s perfume Shh… from all of its 150 UK stores with immediate effect," the company said in a statement. "This decision will be reviewed once Ms Goody has left the Big Brother house and is in a position to respond to the media in person."
The irony.
Jack Straw calls on Ofcom to act now
Day 16, 17:03 UTC - by James Welsh
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The Leader of the House of Commons, Jack Straw MP, has called on communications regulator to act over allegations of racism and bullying in Celebrity Big Brother immediately.
"First, I do not think that any of us should have a casual approach to racism," he said when Keith Vaz, the MP for Leicester East, raised the issue in the Commons. "We have managed to change the climate of opinion in this country by being tough on, and unequivocal about, racism both in public and in private. It is important that we maintain that approach.
"On the specific point that my right honourable Friend raises, I understand that Ofcom has the power to open investigations while the programme is being broadcast, instead of having to wait until it has finished, which would be risible. I understand his concern that there should be a debate and I will do what I can to assist him."
Uh oh.
Jowell: CBB is "presenting racism as entertainment"
Day 16, 17:26 UTC - by James Welsh
Culture secretary Tessa Jowell has said that Celebrity Big Brother is "presenting racism as entertainment."
"They have received an enormous number of complaints," Jowell told reporters outside a media conference in Oxford. "I hope now these complaints will be properly investigated by Ofcom as the regulator. These are not judgements for me as secretary of state. I don't think anyone wants to live in a country where the politicians decide what is shown on television. I don't think that is something for Channel 4 to feel pressured into doing. I'm disappointed that we've got to this position."
Jowell then added her personal opinion of the show.
"I think this is racism being presented as entertainment and I think it's disgusting."
She reiterated, however, that it remains a matter between Channel 4 and Ofcom. "The decisions about what they show is a matter for Ofcom. Channel 4 have a remit which they have an obligation to broadcast to."
Egads!
Ian plays matchmaker for Shilpa
Day 16, 16:08 UTC - by Daniel Saney
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Ian shocked Shilpa this afternoon by pretending to set up a romantic encounter between her and Dirk.
"We just went to the diary room," he informed her. "Guess what we asked for." Shilpa tried the likely suspects - food, alcohol, a task - but couldn't come close.
"We asked for a candlelit dinner for you and Dirk," the playful housemate laughed as the actress reeled in shock. "You'd make such a nice couple."
"He's very kind and sweet," she began diplomatically, "but he's not my type. I need someone more fun."
Asked about her ideal man, she explained: "There is no prototype, because that can restrict [you]. Someone who has a sense of humour, someone who is extremely respectful, someone who I want to have kids with. Someone who'll be a great father and someone who...will be my friend. These are the prerequisites."
Awww! :mrgreen: