BBC on Complaints of Coverage

The BBC on Friday reacted to some viewer and listener complaints that its coverage of Kate Middleton‘s cancer diagnosis was “excessive and insensitive,” saying it has been guided by “sensitivity” and the “significance of this story.”

The U.K. public broadcaster acknowledged that “not everyone would have approved of the approach we took” in covering Middleton’s revelation last month following weeks of speculation and conspiracy theories shared on social media.

The BBC statement did highlight that its approach “reflected the significance of this story and the outpouring of support for the princess from around the globe.” It added: “As part of our analysis, we examined the intense speculation there had been in the preceding weeks about the princess’s health.  We also reported on Catherine’s request for privacy and detailed the statement from Kensington Palace regarding the princess having the right to privacy in relation to her medical issues.”

In a recent social media post, Middleton, the Princess of Wales, said: “In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous. The surgery was successful; however, tests after the operation found cancer had been present.” She added that, on medical advice, she had begun a course of preventative chemotherapy treatment.

The BBC emphasized on Friday: “We always give careful consideration to the editorial decisions we make.”

Overall, the U.K. public broadcaster argued about its news coverage of Middleton’s cancer diagnosis that “our reporting made clear that this is a difficult time for the princess and the rest of the Royal Family.” It concluded: “We have been mindful at all times to approach our coverage with sensitivity.”