Last Friday BBC Breakfast journalist Naga Munchetty interviewed transport secretary Grant Chapps, regarding checks and rules for travellers returning from abroad. Following this interview, Munchetty faced a huge amount of criticism on social media, with some twitter users labelling her “extra rude”, “antagonistic” - some even typing “she’s at it again.”
Munchetty voiced viewers' experiences regarding the lack of enforcement; with many claiming they had not encountered any of the necessary checks (such as filling out forms).
Munchetty stated “No one is checking,” and continued to ask for the figures of how many people have been fined, questioning “How many?” When Shapps was unable to provide the figures and data regarding fines, Munchetty asked, “You’re the transport secretary, why don’t you have the data?”
Chapps replied “Because in this country we allow the authorities to get on with their job and they release the information, not ministers, that’s why.”
Despite the negative comments, many were quick to point out that her direct and succinct interviewing technique is not unlike that of her male colleges with one viewer writing: “To those who are saying that Naga Munchetty was rude this morning on BBC Breakfast – how was she any different to Charlie Stayt who interviewed Nick Gibb over the exam results shambles? Oh wait I already know, she’s a dark skinned female. Can’t be having one of those speak up on TV.”
Other viewers were also quick to notice that when Munchetty took an “evasive” or “incoherent” politician to task, she was accused of being rude. Yet when a male journalist does the same thing, they are invariably praised for it.” One viewer added, “She only gets grief because she’s a woman and BAME. If she was Piers Morgan she’d be applauded, and he’s much ruder and obnoxious.”
Why is it when a strong BAME female journalist directly questions and holds others accountable that people have such a problem?
Written by Abby Hunt
Artwork by Zara Masood
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