Police have released an update on their inquiry into a public order incident stemming from Bob VylanS performance at Glastonbury Festival. The investigation was prompted by criticism of the BBC‘s live stream of the set, which included lyrics some viewers found offensive.
The force stated they consulted with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in October to understand relevant legal precedents.Following this legal advice, a voluntary police interview was arranged to progress enquiries.
“It has been significant for us to have a full understanding of any legal precedents, which is a complex process, and therefore over the past couple of months we have been seeking early legal advice from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS),” the force said in a statement. “Following a review of the advice, a voluntary police interview was arranged to help us progress our enquiries… The matter has been recorded as a public order incident while we continue to investigate and consider all relevant legislation.”
Voluntary interviews are used when an arrest isn’t deemed necesary, such as for public safety or evidence preservation, and attendees are interviewed under caution with full legal rights.
The BBC’s Executive Complaints Unit previously found the broadcast breached editorial standards related to harm and offense, but cleared the corporation of inciting crime. The BBC issued an apology, particularly to the Jewish community, and announced it would no longer live broadcast “high risk” performances following the controversy.
