Reporter Apologizes For Originally Identifying London Stabber As Having 'Muslim Appearance'

by Andrew Kirell
Mediaite
May 27, 2013

https://www.legal-project.org/4096/reporter-apologizes-for-originally-identifying

BBC News political editor Nick Robinsonapologized last week for originally identifying the London stabbing as having a "Muslim appearance" based on quotes given to him by law enforcement.

Appearing on the News at Six the day of the Woolwich attack, Robinson explained that his law enforcement sources told him the perpetrator was of "Muslim appearance" and had reportedly been shouting "Allahu Akbar," the Arabic phrase for "God is great."

The report apparently generated controversy, especially within the United Kingdom's Muslim community, who felt the comment represented an unfair "racist generalization." Several days later, Robinson took to the BBC website to post an apology note, which read in part:

I'm sorry for using a phrase that, on reflection, was both liable to be misinterpreted and to cause offence. Many Muslims were quick to condemn the attack and to distance themselves and their religion from the brutal savagery seen on the streets of Woolwich.

Watch the original comment below, via BBC News:

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