West Dorset MP challenges Blue Peter's climate hero challenge
Chris Loder isn't happy about the latest Blue Peter Green Badge
The local MP has challenged the BBC over children going ‘meat-free’ as part of the challenge to earn a Blue Peter Badge.
West Dorset MP Chris Loder, isn't happy with the message this sends children and has challenged the broadcaster.
He has written to Director General Tim Davie asking him why the BBC allowed the popular children’s programme Blue Peter to demand children not to eat meat in order to get their Blue Peter Green Badge.
Mr Loder also also highlighted that the message is not only wrong, but threatens rural communities, the farming sector and livelihoods.
The local MP said:
"The reason I wasn't happy about it and I appreciate it's a bit contentious, not everybody agrees, but it is my position and my view that actually the mantra or the line about eating less red meat or less meat full stop and that it's good for the environment, I don't agree with that statement."
The BBC said in a statement:
“We are not asking Blue Peter viewers to give up meat. That was made clear both on the show and on our website which has been updated to reflect that buying seasonal food or local grass-fed meat can also make a difference to climate change.
There are also other pledge options to choose from to earn a Green badge such as switching off lights or using reusable water bottles.”
They also added that the vegetarian option is part of the ‘supersize’ pledge which groups undertake. Kids can still receive their badges individually but even as a group they don’t have to choose the vegetarian meals swap, they can choose alternative options and still receive a badge.