MARTIN Lewis has said it is a “disgrace” the BBC does not have a primetime consumer programme during a cost of living crisis.
The Money Saving Expert founder and consumer finance expert was speaking on the High Performance podcast when he touched upon how the BBC has reduced its previously popular consumer investigative journalism programme Watchdog to a “concession” on The One Show.
The programme started back in 1985 and focused on investigating complaints and concerns by viewers and consumers over problematic experiences with trade, retailers and other companies, concerning the likes of customer service and security.
Presented by the likes of Anne Robinson and Nicky Campbell over the years, it raised awareness of purchasing rights for consumers and pushed for changes in company policies and consumer laws.
But in 2020, it was announced it would be discontinued as a standalone series and is now just a segment on The One Show once a week.
Lewis, who has presented The Martin Lewis Money Show on ITV since 2012, said it is a “tragedy” the Watchdog no longer has a primetime slot when so many people are struggling with their finances.
Lewis (below) was asked about how the country got to a position where society is “stacked against people” when he said: “I think it’s always been like that, I think we are just more aware of it now.
He went on: “You had programmes like That’s Life [BBC satirical consumer affairs show] which were consumer empowerment, you had Watchdog which I was a big fan of and I think it’s an absolute tragedy that the BBC, our public service broadcaster, has reduced that to a concession on the One Show.
“I mean I think it’s a disgrace during the cost of living crisis that there is now no mainstream consumer programme that is on primetime BBC.
“There is on ITV, but there isn’t on BBC, and I would love the competition.”
In the rest of the episode, Lewis sheds light on large corporations exploiting communities and shares with hosts Jake Humphrey and Damian Hughes the importance of building trust, fostering an ethical society and navigating personal and professional challenges.
A BBC spokesperson said: “Consumer affairs programming appears across the BBC and Watchdog is watched by millions as part of The One Show.
"Our Scam Safe week has brought BBC brands and experts together to offer consumers help across the BBC’s programmes, delivering value for all, and educating audiences on the latest scams is a core pillar of our news reporting.
"Programmes such as Morning Live covers the cost-of-living crisis daily, with topical news stories and investigations.”
