Good Morning Britain viewers have been left divided as Paul Brand made his hosting debut on the show. Those tuning into the news programme were surprised to see the ITV News UK editor, and former political editor, at the helm alongside Kate Garraway.
The Welsh broadcaster helped Kate wake up the nation with the latest breaking news and other headlines, including A-Level results. But before kicking off the programme, Kate welcomed Paul onto the show who quickly replied: "I think I'm punching here, Kate."
But a giggling Kate replied: "You're really not," before continuing: "We're normally talking to you here in the studio about all the amazing things that you've done and brought to everyone's attention with your brilliant journalism but now you're back presenting GMB. How do you feel so far?"
"Awake. which a good thing." Paul responded as Kate cheekily said: "That's a good start. Better than Ben Shephard most of the time." Paul then continued: "I've got a one-year-old son so he's been a good rehearsal for the early start and I'd normally be changing a nappy around now. So this is a significant upgrade to my usual morning routine."
Among the topics they tackled on Thursday's show (August 18) was the rail strikes which are continuing to cause travel chaos across the country. The Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union boss Mick Lynch appeared via video link, live from the picket line outside Euston station.
Rail services across the country have ground to a halt during the latest strike, in a bitter dispute over jobs, pay and conditions and there further industrial action is due to take place this weekend on Saturday, August 20.
Speaking about those taking part in industrial action, Mr Lynch said: "They've made a sacrifice to stand up for their rights. You don't get anything without being committed to a cause. You'll see the picket lines becoming more vibrant across the country. We will continue to support them, along with other trade unions and many members of the public."
Network Rail chief executive Andrew Haines also spoke to presenters from the station, assuring them "job security for everyone who wants to keep their job". He also argued that an 8 per cent pay rise is a “good offer” despite it falling short of inflation.
He told GMB: "The harsh challenge we’ve got in the railway system is we’ve only got three sources of funding. The taxpayer will pay more than 50 per cent of the railway, fares or making our system more efficient."
But GMB viewers argued that it was Paul who 'let himself down' after he quizzed Mr Lynch on his "six-figure salary". The report was denied by the union boss but Paul tried to get to the point of his question, saying he wasn't trying to 'demonise' him over his salary while those who he represents take home less.
@realTinaTeapot tweeted: "This Paul Brand fella let himself down, firstly stating that Mick Lynch is on a six figure salary which is wrong, then saying that he doesn't want to demonise him for It. What was the point of saying it then? Don't get your info from outlets that are trying to demonise him #GMB."
@Waynebe66 commented: "@PaulBrandITV cheap shot at Mick Lynch ‘having a 6 figure salary’ Paul Brand tarnishing all the good reporting he’s done in the past #GMB." @WarrenPeace_75 argued: "WTF has Mick Lynch's salary got to to with anything? #GMB."
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