London — Under mounting public and political pressure, Ofcom has finally launched an investigation into GB News for re-broadcasting an interview with Donald Trump, a move that raises questions about the regulator's commitment to combating misinformation and protecting vulnerable communities.

The interview, initially aired on the obscure Late Show Live, gained wider exposure when repeated on The Weekend. During the interview, Trump made unsubstantiated claims about climate change being a “hoax” and falsely asserted that parts of London are governed by Sharia law and are “no-go” zones for police. These dangerous and divisive statements went unchallenged by GB News presenter Bev Turner.

For months, groups have voiced concerns about the initial broadcast and criticized Ofcom's inaction. The regulator's initial refusal to investigate raised serious questions about its ability and willingness to hold right-wing media outlets accountable for peddling harmful narratives. The subsequent re-airing of the interview, and its wider reach, amplified the potential for real-world harm, particularly for marginalized communities targeted by Trump's rhetoric.

Ofcom's decision to investigate only the repeat broadcast, while seemingly arbitrary, underscores the power of public outcry and the potential for legal challenges to force regulatory action. The change in leadership at Ofcom, with the departure of Michael Grade, a figure accused of having a pro-establishment bias, may have also influenced the decision.

Richard Wilson, of the Reliable Media campaign group, rightly points out that the delay allowed Trump's dangerous claims to spread unchecked on social media, accumulating over a hundred thousand engagements. This highlights the urgent need for Ofcom to be more proactive in addressing misinformation and holding media outlets responsible for the content they disseminate.

GB News's response, claiming “surprise and concern” and suggesting the investigation is politically motivated, is a transparent attempt to deflect responsibility. The outlet consistently provides a platform for far-right voices and conspiracy theories, contributing to a toxic media environment. This investigation should serve as a wake-up call for GB News and other outlets that prioritize partisan agendas over responsible journalism.

This case also highlights the broader issue of media ownership and its impact on public discourse. GB News, backed by wealthy investors with vested interests, has consistently pushed a right-wing agenda, further polarizing the media landscape. Regulators must address the concentration of media power and ensure that diverse voices and perspectives are represented.