Hampshire Reform councillor calls ITV report 'vote interference'
A Reform UK councillor has accused ITV of electoral interference following an undercover investigation into the party's vetting processes. The documentary, which features footage of candidates using offensive language, is set to air this Sunday.
Why it matters
This highlights the ongoing tension between investigative journalism and political campaigning, raising questions about the ethics of undercover reporting in democratic processes.
Image source, ITV News Image caption, George Madgwick was featured in the ITV Exposure report on Reform candidates
A Reform councillor has accused ITV of "electoral interference" after undercover reporters joined its Portsmouth council election campaign as part of an undercover investigation into the party.
The ITV News Exposure documentary Undercover: A Year In Reform raised questions about Reform's vetting procedures for candidates following undercover filming.
The party's Hampshire leader George Madgwick was featured voicing support for the Portsmouth Patriots anti-immigration group. He subsequently issued a statement saying the undercover reporters potentially had an "impact on the result" of council elections.
ITV News has denied accusations of electoral interference. A spokesperson said the programme was produced in accordance with broadcasting regulations and was "in the public interest".
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