The BBC has issued a repeated and contrite apology for its previous coverage of Rangers FC, in a move that will end the long running dispute.
A statement was released this morning by BBC Scotland as part of talks which will mean a normalisation of the relationship between the national broadcaster and the biggest club in the country.
Due to well documented issues, the general fan base across Scotland as well the wider UK has been largely deprived of sufficient Rangers coverage across TV and radio output including the Sportscene highlights package of Premiership football that goes out every week during the season.
As license fee payers, this has not been good enough but the test will be how certain individuals and BBC Scotland collectively implement fairness and adherence to their editorial standards toward Rangers as we approach the new season.
BBC with a repeated apology for not meeting editorial standards in its coverage of Rangers.
Our fans and license fee payers deserve better. This is a positive but actions will speak louder than words. https://t.co/sKz1thKFDi
— Graeme Hanna (@graeme818) July 20, 2022
As can be seen above, there is a acknowledgement of wrongdoing from BBC Scotland which is important and accurate in regard to what has gone before.
It will be interesting to see just what unravels as we move forward with certain individuals who usually appear on BBC coverage very vocal on their disdain for the club.
With Sportscene, for example, this new “ongoing relationship” means BBC presenters and cameras will return to the stadium, with interviews taking place after the game. Previously, the Beeb had to use general footage from other broadcasters whilst they only featured quotes from players and managers on screen.
It is hopefully, a long overdue conclusion but there will be one or two bumps along the road, that is more or less guaranteed. It is likely that Rangers will have sought assurances on certain matters, whilst BBC HQ down in London and Salford will also be pleased that coverage can be normalised across all BBC platforms.
We await the outcome, what happens next is about the return from Pacific Quay.
We acknowledge the recognition of past errors and the apology from BBC Scotland and the recent apology from Michael Stewart.
Reporting of football matches at Ibrox will recommence at the beginning of season 2022/23. https://t.co/guOOt3yOF3
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) July 20, 2022