An attempt to include secular humanists and atheists on BBC Radio 4’s Thought for the Day was rejected in November.
A letter from patrons of Humanists UK had urged BBC Director-General Tony Hall to air non-religious beliefs during the religious slot. Opponents of the move said that BBC output was already overwhelmingly secular and humanist.
Major faith traditions
In the letter, Humanists UK complained that excluding secular humanist beliefs sent the signal that the BBC believes they have less to contribute than religious people on ethical matters. But the BBC opted to maintain current practice on the three-minute slot, which has formed part of the Today programme for nearly 50 years. It said: ‘Thought for the Day features speakers from the world’s major faith traditions reflecting on topical events and issues. We considered its remit as part of last year’s religion review and concluded that in the context of the BBC’s overall output it serves a distinct purpose and does not need changing.’
