From SEEN in Journalism:

We’ve contacted BBC Scotland about the trigger warning, or ‘content signposting’, on Scotcast with Naomi Cunningham.

The use of signposts on content based on the reality of sex is unique in this debate.

We’re pleased that Scotcast conducted and published this interview even though the other side did not respond to an invitation.

This is in line with Editorial Guidelines: items must not be vetoed because one side does not take part.

However having to ‘empty chair’ the other side does not justify repeated content warnings, which imply potential offence, abuse, discrimination, extreme or hateful speech or misogyny.

We’ve asked the BBC never to use trigger warnings for ‘gender critical’ content again, unless it’s also prepared to add them to every article which describes people as if they were the opposite sex, which could equally be considered offensive or discriminatory.

That would go a long way to establishing fairness, balance and consistency, while also protecting presenters, who can be very exposed on this issue.

We’ve also asked them to support programme teams and presenters editorially by producing fact checks on which they can draw, concerning biological sex and related issues.

Belief in gender identity should never be presented as equivalent to the understanding that sex is a reality. This does not prevent any presenter legitimately explaining that people do have a range of alternate beliefs.

As the BBC moves towards neutrality on this issue, its presenters specifically are vulnerable to the sort of vitriol from activists that women have suffered for years.

Guidelines are needed from the top to ensure that they are editorially protected and able to conduct their work with the accuracy and impartiality required.

No more trigger warnings on reality-based content around sex and gender. They are not necessary, and they frame ‘gender critical views’ as outside appropriate and socially acceptable discourse.