Rigour 2

The BBC's editorial complaints unit, in response to the commercial radio pressure group, The Radio Centre, says guidelines were broken in the coverage given to U2's album launch at Broadcasting House. It said the use of the slogan U2=BBC "gave an inappropriate impression of endorsement", and said a reference to the BBC being "part of launching this new album", in an interview between Zane Lowe and Bono, was inappropriate.

Follow-up action ? The complaints unit said its findings had been discussed at the Radio 1 and sister station 1Xtra editorial meetings. "In addition, the Radio 1 leadership team have reminded executive producers and presenters about the issues to be considered in relation to judgments about undue prominence, and the distinction between the reporting of new artistic work and commercial promotion".

"The management of BBC marketing, communication and audiences (the division responsible for the U2=BBC graphic) has reminded all staff of the need to consult the editorial policy team in a timely manner for advice when potentially sensitive issues such as commercial interests are involved. A session on working with third parties will be included in marketing, communication and audiences monthly editorial issues training programme."

"We acknowledge the findings and have taken note for the future," a BBC spokesman told the Guardian.

Meanwhile another BBC internal watchdog, The Fair Trading Committee, will now return to the U2 issue. A range of issues brought by the Radio Centre are being investigated by the Controller of Fair Trading.