PC prats cross at TV Fiona crucifix

[IRiSHMaFIA]

TELLY newsreader Fiona Bruce was at the centre of a barmy BBC row last night ? over her necklace.

The Beeb?s politically-correct bosses are worried that the tiny crucifix, which hardly any viewers noticed, might upset Muslims.

They are fretting that the Christian symbol may mean viewers could see 42-year-old Fiona as biased while she is reading the 10 O?Clock News.

Fans of the news presenter, who also fronts Crimewatch, have voiced their dismay over the issue.

John Beyer, of viewers? pressure group mediawatch-uk, said: "Why shouldn?t she wear a cross? Newsreaders wear symbolic items such as black ties if someone important dies and poppies for remembrance.

"A small cross should not be an issue as long as the news is presented in a balanced and impartial manner."

A Church of England spokesman added: "It is difficult to see that the integrity of a newsreader is compromised by displaying a modest and discreet symbol of faith."

The whole issue was raised at a meeting by Helen Boaden, director of BBC News.

Executives discussed whether a female Muslim newsreader should be allowed to wear a hijab ? a headscarf.

One insider at the meeting said: "It was argued that BBC staff on screen should not wear anything which hints or directly points to a political or religious leaning and that the cross contravened this and should not be allowed."

But last night a BBC spokesman said: "We are not aware that Fiona has been asked to remove any jewellery."

Fiona was not available for comment.

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I think this is totally ridiculous. This bullshit of 'political politeness has gone way too far.

I don't think a muslim would be offended at all, and they've every right to wear their headscarf as far as I'm concerned.

Their job is to read the news, not comment on it in most cases, and I don't see it as a problem. The crucifix is so bloody small it's barely noticable anyway.....but that's besides the point. The BBC is far too paranoid and it's not actually really about this anyway....it's all down to numbers and ?.

[maycm]

Next thing you know, they'll be asking her to do an occasional bulletin in 'Black Face'

[IRiSHMaFIA]

[faceless]

It does seem a total fuss about nothing - though the BBC do have a big thing about not showing impartiality, so maybe that's where it's come from as a Crucifix is (pardon the pun) nailing your colours to the mast really...