ITV under fire over response for 'ridiculous' GMB interview that 'shouldn't' air

ITV’s Good Morning Britain was inundated with backlash on Monday after Home Secretary Yvette Cooper was interviewed on the show by her husband, presenter Ed Balls.

During her appearance on the show, they discussed the ongoing riots across the country and the communities which have been affected by extremists.

Over the weekend, towns and cities including Tamworth, Rotherham, Bristol and Bolton have been destroyed by rioters smashing properties and attacking police.

As well as talking about the events, Yvette joined speak on the government’s response but was questioned by her husband, who was also Labour’s former cabinet minister.

Although the politician was also quizzed by Ed’s co-host Kate Garraway, viewers questioned whether their relationship had an impact on the discussion.

As Ed’s ability to remain unbias was questioned, ITV issued a response defending their decision.

A spokesperson said: “Following a weekend of rioting and national unrest, GMB featured a range of interviews and discussion around this national emergency on today’s programme which included James Cleverly, shadow home secretary, and Yvette Cooper, home secretary.

“We are satisfied that these interviews were balanced, fair and duly impartial.”

However, viewers remain unimpressed and hit back at the statement, claiming it would’ve been better to have another presenter conduct the interview.

Taking to X, an unsatisfied @RichFenton stated: “There is zero defence that could be offered.”

@RopesToInfinity fumed: “This is obviously, wildly unjustifiable and it's absurd to try and tell us otherwise, one of the most obvious conflicts of interest I've ever seen.”

@Duncanflynn added: “I happen to like both Ed Balls and Yvette Cooper but they shouldn’t be interviewing each other about serious public policy issues on national television.”

While @skhowden defended Ed and remarked: “He's got a job to do.”