BBC's fact-checking unit faces questions over expert's hidden party ties
BBCs fact-checking department used a Labour-linked expert in their farm-tax analysis without clear disclosure. The broadcaster had to make quick changes to their online article after questions about experts background came up
The BBCs fact-checking unit got into hot-water after using Dan Neidle a Labour Party member as an independent source in their farm-tax analysis. The web-story (which talked about inheritance tax changes) needed quick fixes when his party connections came to light
Neidle – who made news about 1 year ago for his work on Nadhim Zahawiʼs tax situation – gave numbers that matched the Treasuryʼs low-end estimates. The article first called him an “independent tax expert“ but later changed it to “founder of the independent Tax Policy Associates“
The original piece had some issues:
- Wrong conversion between hectares and acres
- Misleading expert description
- Removed claim about “below 500 farms per year“
- Changed analysis of Country Land and Business Association data
When asked about his role earlier in 2024‚ Neidle told media heʼs not really an activist saying: “unless its possible to be a centrist activist“. He works with Labourʼs national committee on appeals – but claims heʼd look into anyoneʼs tax problems regardless of their party
The BBC defended their choice saying the article used many sources; however they had to update it “to more accurately describe who he is“. They kept most conclusions but removed some specific numbers: the broadcaster says its normal to make such changes as new info comes up (though they dont always note these updates)
