The BBC has come under fire after one of its comedy shows hosted a writer who has shared antisemitic conspiracy theories, billing him as a “left-wing journalist”.
Steve Topple, who writes for left-wing website the Canary, appeared on the most recent episode of the BBC’s the Mash Report, a satirical current affairs show, in a segment on the divide between the left and the right.
In 2015, Mr Topple tweeted that “maybe most Jews peaceful, but until they recognize and destroy their growing Zionist cancer they must be held responsible.”
He has also previously claimed that Christine Lagarde, the managing director of the International Monetary Fund, is a “puppet” of Dominique Strauss-Kahn and the Rothschild family.
In 2014, Mr Topple tweeted: “Hurrah! Another Jewish #RoyalBaby to simper over, whilst Zionism's control intensifies! Windors? Rothschild-Goldsmiths.”
Mr Topple apologised for his “previous comments” in 2016.
He was brought in by the Mash Report for a comedy segment to debate with Sebastian Shemirani, the vice president of the London School of Economics’ Conservative Society.
Each of them was presented as represent the views of either side of the political divide.
The Red Roar blog accused the BBC of “normalising” Mr Topple, and encouraged its readers to submit formal complaints to the broadcaster.
The BBC has been contacted for comment.
