Boris Johnson has described the BBC as the “Brexit bashing corporation” at a Tory leadership hustings. Speaking at the latest hustings in Carlisle, a Conservative member claimed the broadcaster is not independent on Brexit and asked what could be done about the licence fee as a result. He said: “The BBC has been at the forefront of the assault on Brexit for some time – they no longer make any pretence of being independent and balanced, in my opinion.”Mr Johnson interjected to add “the Brexit bashing corporation”, as he agreed. “Yes, absolutely,” the member continued, adding: “So should something be done about the licence fee?” Boris Johnson hit out at the BBC over the licence fee (Andrew Matthews/PA)Mr Johnson claimed the BBC could afford to continue providing free TV licences if it cut the salaries of its star presenters. Hi BBC, look after the over-75s please.

Source: Irish Examiner June 29, 2019 15:45 UTC