As the newest broadcaster to commit the same on-air gaffe, ITV’s Robert Peston referred to the new Chancellor as “Jeremy C***.”
The 62-year-old political editor made the error while covering a turbulent Wednesday that included the resignation of the Home Secretary and allegations of sobs and tears in the Commons over fracking.
The Wednesday night politics host of ITV, Peston, was discussing Jeremy Hunt’s proposed cutbacks to government expenditure.
That implies that the public finances are in a worse state than they otherwise would be, making Jeremy C**( *’s Hunt’s) budget cutbacks more severe.
The South West Surrey MP has previously urged media outlets to “grow up” and refrain from incorrectly pronouncing his last name as a very unpleasant slur.
The former business editor’s error was quickly addressed on social media.
Another broadcaster managed to shout “Jeremy C***” on air, a Twitter user noted.
Someone another questioned, “How does this keep happening?”
A third said, “I’m starting to think that these news readers are doing it on purpose.”
Several well-known politicians and broadcasters, including Victoria Derbyshire, James Naughtie, Nicky Campbell, and Harriet Harman, have erred.
Mr. Hunt advised broadcasters to “grow up” and stop it in a statement to the Daily Telegraph.
I’m accustomed to it, the man replied. This was something I had in school.
My own opinion is that people need to mature and stop caring because my last name rhymes with a bad term.
It follows the groveling apologies from a Channel 4 News presenter who was caught on camera calling Tory minister Steve Baker a “c**t.”
On Wednesday, Krishnan Guru-Murthy spoke in-depth with the Minister for Northern Ireland about Suella Braverman’s resignation as home secretary.
The live broadcast then changed to the Downing Street residence of Prime Minister Liz Truss after the interview.
Guru-Murthy thought he had left the air, but adjacent livestream broadcasts continued to hear what he had to say.
The host was heard saying: “Steve, you know that wasn’t a foolish question. Any day I’d be pleased to compete against you on [PM Liz] Truss. What an idiot.
Although Mr. Baker called it a “unfortunate” accident, he added: “If it’s a violation of his code of conduct, I hope they sack him.”
After then, Guru-Murthy apologized sincerely for the error.
“I used a really inappropriate slur in an unguarded moment off air after a tough conversation with Steve Baker MP,” he said.
“While it was not televised, using that term in any context falls short of the standards I set for myself. I sincerely apologize.” I apologize and have contacted Steve Baker.
In response, Mr. Baker said, “I appreciate your apology. I’m grateful.