Ofcom Probes ITV Host’s Comments on 5G-Virus Conspiracy Theory

(Bloomberg) --

The U.K.’s communications regulator is investigating broadcaster ITV Plc after one of its top hosts suggested there may be truth to a conspiracy theory linking the next generation of wireless technology to the spread of coronavirus.

Ofcom said in an e-mailed statement it received 419 complaints about the issue and it’s “assessing the program in full as a priority,” as the view is spurring attacks on telecom engineers and equipment.

Monday’s edition of daytime show This Morning discussed groundless theories linking 5G to the illness, with one of the program’s presenters saying the views were not true. Host Eamonn Holmes then said “what I don’t accept is mainstream media immediately slapping that down as not true when they don’t know it’s not true.”

“No one should attack or damage, or do anything like that, but it’s very easy to say it is not true because it suits the state narrative,” he said. “That’s all I would say as someone with an inquiring mind.”

On Tuesday’s edition of the program, Holmes said his comments had been misinterpreted, and that there is no connection between 5G and the virus. An ITV spokeswoman referred Bloomberg to his Tuesday statement.

Proponents of the theory on the internet and social media have recently fueled a spate of attacks on mobile masts in the U.K. Some researchers say the conspiracy is getting boosted by a coordinated campaign.

The investigation comes after the U.K. government has set up special units to combat misinformation about the virus, and says it’s pressing social media companies to contain the spread of false reports and rumors “which could cost lives.” Ofcom has already sanctioned a small radio station for featuring a guest who claimed 5G caused the pandemic.

The International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection has found no evidence suggesting 5G poses a risk to human health. The Ofcom investigation was first reported by Reuters.

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