BBC Denies Spouting Government's Qaeda Line

Similarities between a leaked British government document and a recent BBC report on al-Qaeda’s waning support are just that, the broadcaster said today in denying its editorial independence had been dented. A report leaked to the Guardian talked of pushing material through UK media channels to suggest al-Qaeda is weakening; the BBC show suggested the group was losing support, but could still attack the West.

"There is absolutely no truth in any implication that the BBC compromised editorial independence," a BBC spokesman said today. He added that the show was commissioned some time ago and takes a broad look at the terrorist organization. Two key figures used to paint the case that the terror group is fading are also highlighted in the government’s report, the Guardian notes. (More BBC stories.)