BBC Proms fury as host brands Rule Britannia ‘problematic’ | UK | News


BBC Proms host Katie Derham is being slammed on social media – after she described Rule, Britannia! and Land of Hope and Glory as “incredibly problematic”.

Proms veteran Katie Derham, who is on presenting duties for the classical music festival for her 15th year, made the comments in the Radio Times. The former Strictly Come Dancing contestant described the patriotic classics as “bangers” and “defacto national anthems”.

However, she also says they “delight and enrage large swathes of the population in equal measure”. Derham wrote: “Both have lyrics that are of their time and, yes, also incredibly problematic.”

Her comments have sparked a furious response online, with some demanding that the BBC be “defunded” and that Derham be sacked. They come amid a long-running row over the singing of the anthem Rule, Britannia!

Some critics say it has uncomfortable associations with Britain’s colonial past and slavery. It was first performed in 1740 – a time when Britain was still heavily involved in the slave trade.

However, this was also a time when Barbary Pirates still regularly raided parts of Britain – such as Devon and Cornwall. They then sold kidnapped Britons into slavery in markets in North Africa.

   

Regardless of its origins and meaning, many people have slammed Katie Derham’s comments. Responding to The Telegraph’s tweet about the issue, @A1an_M said: “Sounds like the Proms needs to find a new host.”

Martin Linklater agreed, saying: “Step aside and let a patriot host it.” Meanwhile, @mentalMaclem45 said: “Every b****y year we get a re-run of this nonsense… Defund the BBC!”
Nancy Plumridge wrote: “You have to be kidding me! Take the Proms away from the BBC. The best part of the Proms is the Last Night with the patriotic music, flag waving and sea shanty music.”

Taking aim at the BBC, @willyLongstaff said: “The word British in the British Broadcasting Corporation is ‘incredibly problematic’ as the BBC no longer reflects British values.”

Blasting Derham, @Simmerit1 said: “Sack the host then. Problem solved and it’s then unproblematic.”

And @watchdog_MP said: “There is absolutely nothing problematic about it. If a minority of people don’t like it too bad, the rest of the majority do.

“This is a British event after all in Britain. It should have British songs in it and Rule Britannia should be played loud and proud at the Proms.”

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