Film & TV Database

Viewer Nicholas McCarthy is alarmed by the disturbing trend of animals being killed on television, specifically in CASTAWAY 19/1/00 (BBC1) and RETURN TO RIVER COTTAGE 9/1/00 (C4). Comment from Dr Julia Wrathall (RSPCA) and reply from Jeremy Mills (Exec Producer, CASTAWAY 2000). Viewer Steve Prince wants to know why, when there are enough repeats on television anyway, the BBC schedules repeats the same week as the original broadcast. Reply from Adam MacDonald (BBC Head of Scheduling). The Right to Reply 500, the internet survey group, were asked: When was it right to use fast turnaround repeats? 30% - never; 26% - once a month; 28% - once a week; 10% - twice a week. PRIVATE PARTS : THE CLITORIS UNCOVERED and PRIVATE DICKS : MEN EXPOSED (C4). Viewer Elizabeth McCann was not impressed with the PRIVATE PARTS series. The 'Clitoris' programme was voyeuristic and titilating, more akin to soft porn than being educational. In contrast the 'Penis' programme focussed more on the men themselves. Comment from Prof Lynne Segal (Birkbeck College, University of London). Followed by studio discussion with Sara Ramsden (Commissioning Editor, Sciences and Features, C4), Elizabeth McCann and Roger Bolton. Viewer Dominic Newland reports on the issues raised, and what the effect the proposed merger between two major companies, Carlton and United, will have on ITV, especially regional coverage. Comments from Nigel Walmsley (Chairman, Carlton Media Group), Tobias Reeks (Media Analyst, Credit Lyonnais Securities, Europe), and Graham Young (Film and TV Editor, Birmingham Evening Mail).