The BBC stands as a byword for impartiality and independence. It's free from advertising money and produces Top Gear. The BBC doesn't have an opinion on anything, the only exception is the corporation itself and broadcasting matters.

Of course, all of the above is being constantly questioned, with the exception of Top Gear making. The BBC has been described as pro-Palestinian, pro-Israeli, anti-Catholic, anti-Christian, pro-Muslim, pro-Labour, too much left-leaning, too liberal, uncritically pro-global warming etc., and to produce evidence for any of the above-mentioned claims is easy. Some allegedly biased reports are balanced out in the course of the day. Some aren't.

But those pros and antis aren't the result of an outside political pressure, they tend to reflect the collective British psyche as well as extreme political correctness.

The latest controversy is political, though.

BBC's director general Mark Thompson (on the photo) sparked criticism when he visited the 10 Downing Street apparently to discuss the BBC's coverage of the spending cuts.

Now, the government knows that cuts will be painful and officials are reportedly worried that the series of upcoming BBC programs would provide much unwanted negative publicity.

The BBC is now operating under constant talk about cuts and possible reform of the licence fee scheme, and critics saw the Thompson's visit in this light.

The corporation defended itself claiming it would "discuss the issue with all main political parties".

Fair enough, the changes the government is planning to implement will change Britain for years to come and the public has right to know who stands where and details of their respective policies.

But surely it doesn't have to be the BBC's director general's task to walk about parties' headquarters and government offices in person to get politicians on TV.

Kristian Klima

Photo: ISIFA