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.