BBC Broadcasting House sprayed with red paint

The scene at BBC Broadcasting House in London, after red paint was sprayed over the entrance. Picture date: Saturday October 14, 2023. | James Manning/PA Wire

BBC’s Broadcasting House headquarters in London has been targeted and daubed in red paint. Presenter Victoria Derbyshire posted images and footage of the scene showing the vandalised revolving glass doors and pale stone brickwork at Portland Place as she arrived for work on Saturday morning.

The BBC has faced criticism in recent days for maintaining its editorial stance not to describe Hamas militants as terrorists. But the Metropolitan Police said the incident has not yet been linked to any protest group.

Hundreds of protesters later gathered outside the media headquarters which was the starting point for a major pro-Palestinian march in the capital. Palestine flags and supportive placards were waved as people chanted, with Metropolitan Police and community support officers stationed nearby. More than 1,00 officers are being deployed to police the thousands expected to show solidarity with Palestine amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

The Portland Place piazza was closed off, with metal barriers in place behind yellow cleaning-in-progress warning signs. Large brooms could be seen leaning against the glass doors, with the paint spread over the pavement and stonework.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: “We are aware of criminal damage to a building in Portland Place, W1A. At this stage there is no suggestion this is linked to any protest group.”

BBC radio presenter and DJ Edward Adoo tweeted on Saturday morning: “Just got to the BBC the main entrance is blocked someone sprayed red paint at the entrance. Regardless of your view on what’s going on this is not the way. Props to the security team on duty tonight.”