Lisa Nandy explores the possibility of giving more power to an independent body to ensure accountability in the creative industries.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy is considering the introduction of stricter standards within the creative industries following recent allegations against MasterChef host Gregg Wallace. Nandy met with the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA) to discuss whether the organisation could take a more prominent role in enforcing the necessary changes across the sector.
The Labour MP is examining the possibility of empowering CIISA with stronger legal tools to ensure accountability, according to sources close to the meeting. CIISA, established in 2022 to address issues of bullying and harassment within the film, TV, theatre, and music industries, currently lacks the authority to impose sanctions. Instead, it offers mediation and dispute resolution services.
Nandy’s intention is to explore whether CIISA needs additional legal powers to hold individuals in the industry accountable, with the aim of preventing incidents like the one involving Wallace, who has recently stepped back from MasterChef while a misconduct investigation takes place.
This conversation follows a recent appearance by Nandy before the Culture, Media, and Sport Committee, where she discussed the ongoing issues within the industry. She expressed frustration with the current system, which, she believes, silences victims and prevents proper action from being taken. “People are afraid to file complaints because it could cost them their career,” she stated. “This must change — action needs to be taken, and those responsible must face consequences.”
In light of the Gregg Wallace allegations, the BBC has emphasised its commitment to maintaining a culture of respect and inclusivity, with director-general Tim Davie and chief content officer Charlotte Moore expressing full support for the investigation by Wallace’s production company, Banijay UK.
The controversy also saw Wallace issue an apology after making dismissive comments about the complaints against him. He had previously claimed the complaints came from “a handful of middle-class women of a certain age” before announcing he would be taking time off. His lawyers have denied allegations of sexual harassment.
