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A whistleblowing investigation by the BBC has revealed significant shortcomings by management in addressing an environment of homophobic abuse at BBC Radio Cornwall. The recently completed internal report found that managerial and institutional failures allowed a culture of homophobia to persist, either implicitly or explicitly.

The internal report's findings emerged during an employment tribunal involving Jack Murley, a former presenter at BBC Radio Cornwall. Murley has filed a lawsuit accusing the BBC of wrongful dismissal, asserting that his termination was motivated by discrimination due to his sexuality and his role as a union representative. In contrast, the BBC claims Murley was dismissed for violating social media guidelines.

In a written statement to the tribunal, Murley called the investigation's conclusion "highly damning." Meanwhile, the BBC described Murley's treatment as "regrettable" but contended that the report does not indicate that managers acted unfavorably towards him because of his sexuality. The corporation suggested that the majority of individuals implicated in the historical abuse are no longer with the BBC, yet some accused of homophobic behavior remain employed.

During tribunal sessions in Exeter, Emma Clements, executive editor of BBC Devon and Cornwall, addressed the contents of a management WhatsApp group. Under cross-examination, she admitted that certain posts could be seen as homophobic. Although she claimed to have privately challenged the perpetrators, the posts were not removed from the group.

Inquiries from Deadline about whether those accused have faced disciplinary actions went unanswered, as the BBC declined to comment while legal proceedings continue. The corporation's diversity and inclusion policy emphasizes a commitment to preventing unlawful discrimination or harassment in any form.

The revelation of the report coincides with a broader workplace culture review at the BBC, led by Change Associates, which is set to conclude next year. Employment tribunal judge Alastair Smail is expected to deliver a ruling on Murley's case next year.