AN inquiry into alleged BBC bias was demanded today by Huddersfield MP Barry Sheerman.
The senior Labour backbencher, chairman of the Commons Education Committee, was speaking before the Hutton Inquiry's report was published.
The BBC's role in events leading up to the death of Government weapons expert Dr David Kelly will be a key issue when Lord Hutton releases his report, expected later this month.
But Mr Sheerman claimed the BBC's bias was not confined to the war in Iraq. A wider investigation was needed.
"This past year has seen, for the first time in BBC history, a campaign waged by the corporation against the Government and its policies," he said.
"The extent of the bias in BBC current affairs coverage of the major policy areas, not just on Iraq, but in health, education and public services generally, merits a full and independent public inquiry," said Mr Sheerman.
"The BBC should not be allowed to hide behind the Hutton Inquiry, whatever its conclusions.
"The case against the BBC goes far wider than Hutton, the Iraq war and the death of Dr Kelly."
The Government scientist apparently committed suicide after being named as the source of BBC reporter Andrew Gilligan's claim that No 10 "sexed up" intelligence on Iraqi weapons.
BBC director general Greg Dyke has dismissed suggestions that he or other senior executives could be forced to go when Lord Hutton presents his report.
But the BBC's policy and legal director, Caroline Thompson, this week said the BBC had "spectacularly" admitted errors and some staff may have to quit.
Mr Sheerman said a thorough review was now the only way to restore the corporation's credibility.
"The reputation of the BBC for honesty, objectivity and balance is seriously in question. Only a thorough and extensive review followed by rapid change will restore the reputation of the BBC," he added.
