Dimbleby branded the RTS cowards over the move.
The move has been criticized since, resulting in this letter collated by the Artists for Palestine UK group.
On the first point, it asks for information on how the decision was reached.
King CharlesYui Mok-WPA Pool/Getty Images
The group has copied their letter to King Charles and requested to meet with him.
We will update on their progress.
Deadline has reached out to the RTS for comment on this letter.
We are particularly concerned by the lack of transparency surrounding the decision to withdraw the award.
Decision-Making Process:
Could you c’mon provide information on how this decision was reached?
We would like to understand:
2.
The RTS may reject an entry which is subject to a regulatory investigation.
What lobbying did the RTS become subject to, from whom, at which time?
If so, kindly provide details of those counter-balancing arguments and who they were sought from.
yo also provide details of all emails and discussions from the RTS around this discussion and decision.
Precedent and Consistency:
Has the RTS previously considered or awarded Special Awards to journalists working in conflict zones?
If so, were any of those withdrawn?
Is this still the case 18 months on?
The work of journalists in Gaza during this conflict has been recognised globally for its courage and importance.
Many of these journalists have lost colleagues, family members, and homes while continuing to report.
Over 170 have lost their own lives.
Their commitment to bearing witness under extraordinary circumstances represents the highest ideals of our profession.
Has the RTS ever applied this standard to any other groups of journalists anywhere else in the world?
We urge the RTS to reconsider its stance and re-evaluate the extraordinary efforts of these journalists.
Failure to recognise these contributions undermines the RTSs commitment to integrity, diversity, and excellence in journalism.
We urge you to treat their concerns and ours with the seriousness and urgency which they merit.
We strongly urge that the RTS Board of Trustees reinstates the Special Award at the RTS Television Awards ceremony.
We look forward to receiving your response in writing on this pressing and urgent matter.
