BBC shows heavy bias over roads

On Sunday Oct 28 a proponent of privatisation was given plenty of time to air his potty ideas without any real contradiction from the sanguine interviewer.

The introduction spoke of "denationalising" Britain's roads, without thought to when they were "nationalised," because our roads and byways have always mostly been public highways or in times gone past the "king's highway."

The usual red herrings were liberally scattered throughout this item, such as it "saving the country money," putting "huge amounts into the Exchequer" and "easing congestion."

Of course the privateers who can see enormous rich profits to be gained if they get their way are only interested in the main motorways and highways where the biggest profits can be made.

The rest of the local network, it was suggested, can be "owned" and maintained by local communities and residents.

So what would the country have instead of freedom of travel? The Virgin M5 or Arriva M6? Second and first- class lanes?

The whole idea must be rejected out of hand and Labour must pledge never to allow these money-grabbing prospectors to take over what are public roads for profit.

Privatisation of our public services has been a disaster for the nation, although the BBC never broadcasts that view.

Why is it the BBC always gives plenty of air time to comments from unelected City analysts and financial lobby groups?

They never air the views of democratic organisations like the trade unions who have overwhelming cases and support for bringing back privatised services such as energy, and railways into public ownership.

The BBC has become the mouthpiece for the City of London.

Richard Maunders

Axminster