BBC has apologised to the U.S. President Donald Trump for editing a 2021 speech in a way that appeared to show him advocating violence—but the broadcaster is firmly rejecting Trump’s demand for compensation.
In a statement, the BBC said it “strongly disagrees there is a basis for a defamation claim,” even as it expressed “sincere regrets” over the edit used in a Panorama episode. The corporation confirmed that it will not rebroadcast the programme.
Trump’s lawyers had threatened to sue for $1 billion unless the BBC retracted the segment, apologised, and paid damages. While the apology has been issued, the BBC says it will not be offering any settlement.
A spokesperson confirmed that BBC lawyers have formally responded to Trump’s legal team, and that Chair Samir Shah sent a personal letter to the White House expressing that he and the corporation are “sorry” for the edited clip.
The controversy stems from leaked internal accusations of bias that have already led to the resignation of the BBC’s two top leaders.
