BBC removes Apple logo from Spooks amid product placement furore

by Joe Lepper, Brand Republic 26-Sep-05, 09:00

LONDON - The BBC has been forced to edit an Apple logo out of an episode of its spy series 'Spooks', as the corporation launches an investigation into allegations of product placement in its programmes.

An investigation by the Sunday Times alleges that the practice of product placement is widespread, despite being in contravention of broadcasting guidelines.

The BBC has launched its own investigation and has now admitted it was forced to edit last week's BBC One episode of 'Spooks'.

In the episode the Fiona Carter character, played by Olga Sosnovska, is seen using an Apple computer, with the bright logo clearly seen in preview tapes and when aired on BBC Three two weeks ago.

However, when shown last week on BBC One, the Apple logo was removed.

Under BBC guidelines the corporation is forbidden from guaranteeing the appearance of a product. In addition, products can only be used to guarantee realism.

A BBC spokeswoman said: "We are in the middle of an investigation into whether the use of products has breached our guidelines. The programme was edited slightly but other than that we can not comment while the investigation is ongoing."

In the same episode, a character of a right-wing politician asks a colleague to do a "Google search" on another character. The BBC spokeswoman said this will also be referred to the investigation team.

The Sunday Times investigation also alleges that a producer on a new 12-part cookery programme promised an undercover team of reporters that they would feature a new drink brand in return for free travel and accommodation.

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