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Jeremy Kyle show row, MP Damian Collins demands urgent review

Folkestone and Hythe MP Damian Collins has called for an "urgent review" into how TV shows protect the welfare of reality show guests.

The politician, who chairs the all-party Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee, said a "proper independent review" was required into the duty of care policies carried out by shows which put "anonymous, private citizens" in the spotlight.

His comments follow the decision by ITV to withdraw The Jeremy Kyle Show after a guest died shortly after recording the show.

There have been calls for the Jeremy Kyle show to be scrapped
There have been calls for the Jeremy Kyle show to be scrapped

Mr Collins said: "These shows often feature quite vulnerable people.

"They are people that have come from private life to suddenly being thrust onto television.

"It is not unreasonable to say I think the people that are making the programme, making the money out of programmes, have a duty of care to the people they feature on their shows.

"People are being used as a form of entertainment.

"Out of that they get short-lived celebrity, but what is the actual impact on people?”

MP Damian Collins wants an independent review into how TV shows protect vulnerable guests
MP Damian Collins wants an independent review into how TV shows protect vulnerable guests

Downing Street has also commented on the case.

A spokesman for Prime Minister Theresa May said: "This is a deeply concerning case.

"Broadcasters and production companies have a responsibility for the mental health and wellbeing of participants and viewers of their programmes.

"We are clear they must have appropriate levels of support in place."

Mr Collins made his comments during a radio interview.

Hampshire Police have confirmed Jeremy Kyle show guest Steven Dymond, 62, was found dead on May 9.

His death is not being treated as suspicious.

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