BBC apologises for claiming Live Aid funds bought guns

THE BBC “unreservedly” apologised for broadcasting reports claiming money raised by Live Aid to fight famine in Ethiopia was spent on weapons.

The corporation admitted in an on-air apology it had “no evidence” for the claims which prompted a complaint from Band Aid Trustees including Bob Geldof.

An edition of Assignment, broadcast on the World Service last March, initially reported aid had been diverted by a rebel group in the African country to buy guns.