Film & TV Database

TOP GEAR Viewer Edwin Lewison feels TOP GEAR's preoccuption with speed is unhealthy and dangerous. Comment from Lynn Sloman (Assistant Director, Transport 2000). Reply from Julia Clive (Series Editor, TOP GEAR). The internet survey group, RIGHT TO REPLY 500, were asked: Is the emphasis on speed an influence on driving habits? 54% said 'yes', 46% said 'no'. Is there a duty to warn about safety when road testing cars? 74% said 'yes', 26% said 'no'. MODERN TIMES: MYRA HINDLEY Relatives of the victims of the moors murderer felt the programme gave a platform to the killers. The programme included no new interviews with the families of the victims. Includes interviews with victims' relatives Danny Kilbride, Winnie Johnson and Alan West. Reply from Alex Holmes (Executive Producer, Modern Times). NEWS COVERAGE OF MOZAMBIQUE FLOODS Viewer Richard Kirkham wants to know why journalists took up so much valuable space in rescue helicopters at the expense of the flood victims. He feels the news coverage crossed the line between humanitarian need and the need for good pictures. Includes interviews with (via phone from Mozambique) Peter Thesin (Field Officer, Medecins Sans Frontieres) and Fiona Fox (CAFOD, Disaster Emergency Press Committee). Reply from Rodney Pinder (Editor, Reuters Television News). Followed by studio discussion with Nigel Dacre (Chief Editor, ITV News), Adrian Van Klaveren (Head of News Gathering, BBC), Kirkham and Bolton. GREAT MILITARY BLUNDERS Viewer Roger Smith was one of dozens of Channel Four viewers who complained about the loud and intrusive background music on the programme. Reply from Janice Hadlow (Commissioning Editor, History, Arts & Religion, Channel Four).