BBC pulls plug on Crufts at NEC over dog disease row
Dec 13 2008 by Harriet Alexander, Birmingham Mail
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“We are unable to agree to these demands, as it would compromise both contractual obligations and our general responsibility to dog exhibitors and our audience.
“We believe it would be inappropriate and counterproductive to exclude any recognised breed from Crufts.
“This TV exposure would have benefited all dogs and given viewers a well-rounded picture of what the new Crufts in 2009 is all about,” he said.
In a statement, the BBC said it was aware of the “significant steps” the Kennel Club was taking to address the problems, including making changes to breed standards.
BBC Knowledge Commissioning controller George Entwistle said: “We know a lot of people will be disappointed Crufts will not be on the BBC next year.
“But we need to be confident the measures being taken now and planned for the future are effective in addressing the issues raised about the health of some pedigree dogs before we return to broadcasting the event.”
