How does the BBC vet its shows?

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All BBC programmes are subject to the corporation's guidelinesQuestions have been raised over how an offensive prank call on a pre-recorded edition of Russell Brand's Radio 2 show made it to air.

The BBC has a strict set of rules to ensure programme-makers adhere to the Corporation's editorial guidelines and the UK's broadcasting code.

It has two methods of managing risk - one which applies to pre-recorded programmes, and one which applies to live shows, even if they contain pre-recorded material.

In this instance, the first set of rules would appear to have been in force - as Brand recorded his show on 16 October, with the broadcast taking place two days later.

Following the recording, the programme's producer would have had to fill in a compliance form with details of the show's contents.

Headings on the form ask the producer to flag up any potentially offensive content - including strong language, sexual content, violence, impartiality.

Nudity concerns

Other issues which require caution include references to the occult and hypnotism, interviews with criminals and the inclusion of brand names.

The form is essentially the same for both TV and radio programmes, although radio producers do not have to worry about nudity or the use of strobe lights.

The BBC makes its guidelines available to the publicFor every box ticked on the form, an explanation must be given as to why the producer feels the audience may be offended, and also why the content is justified.

Subsequent questions ask whether there should be an announcement before the programme is broadcast - and whether there are any legal issues that need to be checked by the BBC's lawyers.

The form is then signed both by the producer and a more senior editorial person. In the case of Radio 2, this would generally mean an editor or commissioning editor.

Live programmes

In the case of a live programme, a document called the Statement of Policy applies.

This sets out in detail the training required for production staff, what research should be carried out into guests, contributors and presenters and, crucially, what to do when things go wrong.

It also includes a section dealing with fact that live programmes can contain pre-recorded segments. In this instance, the producer of the live programme is responsible for taped content.

It is possible, although unlikely, that this policy could apply to the Russell Brand show, had a producer been present to play out the presenter's comments while mixing jingles, music and news bulletins into the broadcast.