The BBC is reportedly spending tens of thousands of pounds on a study to find out what the people have in mind about its portrayal gays, lesbians and bisexuals. According to sources, BBC is carrying out the project with the help of research agency 2CV. The agency however will not go unassisted as BBC has just launched an online questionnaire that will be used to carry out the research.
The study will involve gauging the opinions of people in and around the UK about BBC’s portrayal of homosexuality. This will be done by talking to various kinds of audiences around the UK and asking their opinions on language, stereotyping, tone, on-screen talent, scheduling and humour of all of its programmes ranging from news and drama to comedy.
Supposedly pushed by a ‘pan-BBC Working Group on Portrayal and Inclusion of Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual Audiences’, work for the project has already begun. BBC’s endeavour to gain a ‘deeper understanding’ of its representation of bisexuals and homosexuals has sparked angry reactions from critics including Conservative MP Philip Davies. “It seems this is more about enhancing their politically correct reputation” said Mr Davies.
