BBC upholds complaint over use of offensive word about Victoria Beckham

The BBC has upheld a complaint made about Lady Victoria Beckham where she was likened to a “particularly offensive word” on an episode of Have I Got News For You.

Comedian Katherine Ryan guest hosted the comedy show on November 7 and made reference to a 2013 private email sent by Sir David Beckham where he allegedly used the word “c****”.

Ryan said on the show: “I don’t know that we are allowed to broadcast the c-word, but you did reference Victoria Beckham earlier and we’ll allow that.”

In its ruling, the BBC’s Executive Complaints Unit (ECU) said: “There was no such justification for a comment which presented Victoria Beckham as equivalent to a particularly offensive word.”

Comedian Katherine Ryan made the remark when hosting the programme (Ian West/PA)

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The ECU ruled the panel’s use of the word c*** was justified as it was in reference to Sir David’s alleged use of it, but it was not justifiable when used in reference to his wife.

It added: “The relevant BBC editorial guidelines do not require programmes to avoid giving offence but do require that any offence should be editorially justified.”

The ruling noted two viewers had complained the remark was “gratuitously offensive”.

An edited version of the programme in light of the finding will replace the one currently on BBC iPlayer.