'Good Morning Britain' hit with complaints after Richard Madeley interviews Sage scientist

Watch: Richard Madeley challenges scientist on GMB

Good Morning Britain has been hit with nearly 150 complaints to Ofcom following an interaction between Richard Madeley and scientist Prof Susan Michie.

The broadcasting watchdog has confirmed that 145 viewers complained about Monday’s interview with the Sage scientist, with Madeley’s questioning being deemed inappropriate.

Michie appeared on the early-morning programme to discuss the benefits of wearing face masks after the end of lockdown.

In the midst of the discussion, Madeley stunted the interview in order to ask Michie about her affiliation with the Communist Party, and if that affected her viewpoint.

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When Michie tried to brush it off and continue discussing her work as a scientist, Madeley persisted: “If your politics informs your sense of control, it’s not just a medical argument, but you have a political bent to want the state to tell people what to do.”

Michie then told him: “I’ve come on your programme as a scientist, as do all people who come on to your programme as scientists.

"They come on to talk about the evidence, the relevant theories, how we approach scientific disciplines, and you don’t ask other scientists about politics.

“I’m very happy to speak about science, which is what my job is, and to leave it at that.”

Madeley persisted, causing Michie to add: “I’m saying that I agreed to come on this programme as a scientist and I’m very happy to talk to you about the issues you’re raising as a scientist, which is the same as other scientists that you invite on to the programme.”

Read more: Richard Madeley argues Dr Hilary Jones is giving 'misleading' coronavirus advice

Madeley told her that was a “perfectly fair answer” before the conversation continued without discussion.

Viewers backed her up, claiming it was unfair and sexist.

Michie also tweeted after the interview: “A complaint has been submitted and a public apology requested”.

Yahoo has contacted Good Morning Britain for comment.

Watch: GMB presenter Richard Madeley argues Dr Hilary Jones is giving 'misleading' coronavirus advice