“Simple human error”.
Throughout the course of the Brexit negotiations, Theresa May has constantly stated that she’s willing to negotiate with the EU in a cordial and friendly manner.
For example, her speech in January, 2017 stated that “I want us to be a truly Global Britain – the best friend and neighbour to our European partners” and that “we will continue to be reliable partners, willing allies and close friends”.
Sadly, some other MPs have been a bit more hostile to negotiations – especially towards Ireland – and while the EU have been steadfast in their belief that May will not get the outcome that she’s looking for with regards to the backstop, relations are still diplomatic.
On this note, we’re not expecting the British prime minister to arrive in Brussels mounted on top of a tank with Ride of the Valkyries playing on full blast, but the BBC kind of gave this impression due to a “simple human error”.
Ok, how?
Well, BBC producers made it appear as if Theresa May was travelling to Brussels in a fleet of Spitfires – the famous planes from WWII – to reopen negotiations with the EU.
During the News at Six, footage of planes flying over Biggin Hill airbase was shown on live television.
As these images were shown to the world, host Sophie Raworth said: “Theresa May says she intends to go back to Brussels to negotiate her Brexit deal but EU leaders say the deal is done and they will not reopen talks”.
Paul Royall, an editor and journalist at the BBC, explained the mixup and said that it was all due to a simple human error.
“Simple human error at end of BBC News Six. A production mistake meant pictures used earlier to tease story about Biggin Hill ended up in our top story recap at close of show. If and when it happens pretty certain PM not travelling to Brussels like this,” he said.
Brexit, eh?
Theresa May intends to go back to Brussels – In a spitfire..!!! 😂😂
I think even the BBC are getting confused over Brexit…🤔 #Brexit #bbcnews #shescoming#Brussels #brexitdebate pic.twitter.com/CX24O50c1v— Gillian Lucas (@GillianLucas81) January 31, 2019
For those wondering – simple human error at end of #BBCNewsSix. A production mistake meant pictures used earlier to tease story about Biggin Hill ended up in our top story recap at close of show. If and when it happens pretty certain PM not travelling to Brussels like this. pic.twitter.com/P2yXMnkkCK
— Paul Royall (@paulroyall) January 30, 2019
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