BBC 'requires language watchdog'

The BBC says that the English language is constantly evolving

The BBC needs a language adviser to ensure its broadcasters use correct English, campaigners have urged.

The proposal was made in a letter to the chairman of the BBC Trust.

Signatories include former chief inspector of Schools Chris Woodhead, ex-chief of the Defence Staff Lord Guthrie and MP Ann Widdecombe.

Ian Bruton-Simmonds of the Queen's English Society urged the move because "broadcasting journalists are under more pressure than print journalists".

'Discreet advice'

He told the BBC's Today programme that he had suggested the creation of the language adviser post because on-air reporters needed assistance when battling against tight deadlines.

Mr Bruton-Simmonds, author of Mind Your English, said: "Most would appreciate discreet advice.

"The higher up you go in the BBC, the more blameable they are."

He said a similar system was already in place at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

The suggestion has been made in a letter to Sir Michael Lyons, chairman of the BBC Trust.

A BBC spokeswoman said: "It is always interesting to have a debate about the use of the English language, which is constantly evolving.

"The BBC believes what language licence payers expect to hear varies greatly depending on the programme."

The BBC Trust, which oversees the corporation, said the letter had not yet arrived at its offices.

A spokesman said: "We look forward to receiving the letter, as we do all contributions about how the BBC serves the public.

"On matters relating to editorial standards and how these are ensured, the Trust's approach is to create a framework which strikes the right balance between clear requirements reflecting the public's high expectations, and an understanding of the pressures of live broadcasting and the need for creative freedom and some flexibility."