Carolyn McCall, the CEO of ITV, has responded to concerns concerning the atmosphere at This Morning.
Several stars, including Dr Ranj Singh and Eamonn Holmes, have criticised the daytime TV show, stating that it was ‘toxic’ behind the scenes.
The TV doctor, who worked on the show for a decade, said he was’managed out’ after voicing issues with executives.
McCall spoke before a parliamentary committee on Wednesday, only weeks after This Morning host Phillip Schofield admitted to a ‘unwise but not criminal’ affair with a runner, resigning with ‘immediate effect.’
MPs questioned the TV executive about her awareness of the connection, as well as her response to charges of ‘toxicity’ at This Morning.
Asked about the charges about the culture at the long-running programme, she replied: ‘What I would say is that it’s not something that we take that seriously.
‘What I know is that when we talk about culture it’s incredibly important to me, personally and so it deeply disappoints me, right?
‘But we do not recognise that in This Morning and the reason for that is that we have tangible evidence to tell you that the vast majority of people at daytime and at This Morning are engaged.
‘That’s not to say we don’t take complaints about it seriously. We’ve had two complaints in five years about that issue. Both of them taken very seriously.’
McCall revealed that the broadcaster had commissioned an external inquiry into an allegation against Dr Ranj that ‘had transpired but could not be upheld.’
The other complaint, she insisted on being treated seriously, was investigated internally.
In a letter sent by McCall after Dr. Ranj made his charges public, ITV asserted it had a “strong duty of care” to its employees.
She addressed Dr. Ranj’s assertions in the lengthy message, saying the network was’sorry’ to read his remarks.
The network has also asked a solicitor to conduct an independent investigation into the circumstances behind Phillip’s resignation.
The investigation’s results will be made public, according to This Morning editor Martin Frizell.
