Paul Waugh MP is calling for accountability from the BBC after an independent report upheld allegations of inappropriate behaviour by Gregg Wallace, and exposed wider failures in how the broadcaster handles misconduct complaints.
Rochdale’s MP Paul Waugh has urged the BBC to explain why repeated complaints about Gregg Wallace’s conduct were not properly addressed, following the release of a damning independent investigation.
The inquiry found more than half the allegations against Wallace, best known for presenting MasterChef, were upheld, including claims of sexualised language, being undressed in front of women, and unwelcome physical contact. The report also criticised both the BBC and production company Banijay for poor record-keeping and a reluctance to challenge prominent on-screen talent.
“This independent report confirms Gregg Wallace was repeatedly inappropriate and unfit to be on our TV screens,” said Mr Waugh, who sits on Parliament’s Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee.
“But what’s just as worrying is how the BBC mishandled the complaints. It described the sixth complaint as a ‘first offence’, completely ignoring previous incidents. That raises serious concerns about internal communication and safeguarding within the BBC, especially for young freelancers who already feel vulnerable in reporting misconduct.”
Committee Chair Dame Caroline Dinenage MP also expressed alarm. She said the failure to act on repeated red flags shows the broadcaster’s internal complaints system still lacks the transparency and robustness needed to protect staff.
“Most of the allegations pre-date 2019, yet Wallace was not challenged directly. When complainants feel safer speaking to the press than their own HR departments, it tells us a lot about the culture of silence still lingering in parts of the industry,” she said.
The findings come as the CMS Committee prepares to question the BBC’s top leadership this September. Director General Tim Davie and Chair Samir Shah have been summoned to appear before MPs to address Wallace’s case, wider concerns around editorial standards, and recent controversies such as the BBC’s Gaza documentary and Glastonbury coverage.
MPs will use the hearing to assess the broadcaster’s complaint handling, transparency, and workplace culture, and determine what action is being taken to rebuild public trust.
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