Millions Raised by Gaza Appeal

BBC director general Mark Thompson said the decision not to broadcast the appeal was "absolutely" in line with the corporation's broader approach to impartiality and appeals.

Attack on Gaza Photo courtesy: palestinethinktank.com

(GAZA) - An emergency relief appeal for the crisis in Gaza has raised £3 million despite anger over broadcasters' refusal to show it.

The refusal led to protests outside the BBC's Broadcasting House, where demonstrators burned their television licences and occupied the building's reception until they were removed by police.

"The money raised is enabling aid agencies on the ground to reach people in dire need of humanitarian assistance" - Brendan Gormley.

The BBC and Sky, where there were also protests, refused to show the emergency appeal, arguing that to do so would compromise their impartiality.

But the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) said that, thanks to funding since the appeal was launched, aid reached almost 800,000 people with vital supplies of blankets, food, water, sanitation and medical equipment in the conflict-stricken region.

Brendan Gormley, chief executive of the committee, said: "We are delighted that the public have responded in this way to the appeal.

"The money raised is enabling aid agencies on the ground to reach people in dire need of humanitarian assistance."

BBC director general Mark Thompson said the decision not to broadcast the appeal was "absolutely" in line with the corporation's broader approach to impartiality and appeals.

However, the DEC warned the situation remained critical, claiming a million people were without access to a safe and adequate water supply.

More than 100 MPs from all parties signed an early day motion criticising the BBC and Sky News for refusing to show the appeal.

Terrestrial broadcasters ITV, Channel 4 and Five showed the televised appeal on Monday.

To see the video, visit this link: Gaza aid appeal video by Guardian UK

Originally published on ITN

WORLD VIEW NEWS SERVICE