Lisa Nandy 'not satisfied' with Channel 4 response on Married at First Sight UK

Key developments are emerging from the global stage. Lisa Nandy 'not satisfied' with Channel 4 response on Married at First Sight UK20 minutes ago Share Save Add as preferred on GoogleNoor NanjiCulture correspondentBBCThe culture secretary has warned Channel 4 she is "not satisfied" with the broadcaster's response to the government following allegations of rape and sexual assault made by women who appeared on Married at First Sight UK. Last month, the show, known to many as MAFS UK, was plunged into crisis after Panorama reported rape allegations from two female cast members - allegations the men involved have denied. Speaking in the House of Commons on Thursday, Lisa Nandy said she knew MPs would be "horrified and disgusted" by the claims, adding that she would be discussing the matter with Channel 4 "in the coming week".

News has approached Channel 4 for a response to her comments. The broadcaster has pulled all episodes of MAFS UK from its streaming service, and has commissioned an external review of contributor welfare on the show. Channel 4 has said it only intends to publish "a summary of findings" from its review, rather than the full report.

The Details

Speaking to MPs, Nandy said: "I know members across this House will be horrified and disgusted at the serious allegations of abuse against women in the TV industry that have emerged recently. "Everyone has the right to be safe and treated with dignity. "My honourable friend has met with Channel 4 recently about the serious allegations that have emerged around Married At First Sight.

We are not satisfied as a government with the response that we have received, and I will be discussing this further with Channel 4 in the coming week. "Married at First Sight UK brides tell they were raped by on-screen husbandsThe Panorama investigation into MAFS UK revealed allegations that two women had been raped during filming on the reality TV show, while a third said she had been the victim of a non-consensual sex act. All three men deny the allegations.

The women making the allegations all say Channel 4 did not do enough to protect them. Following the broadcast in May, Channel 4 has faced questions over the claims made about the hit show. At the time, the prime minister's official spokesperson called the claims "extremely serious" and said they must be investigated - while the media regulator Ofcom said broadcasters needed to take "due care" over the welfare of show participants.

What Experts Say

The Metropolitan Police encouraged "anyone who believes they have been a victim of sexual assault" after participating on the show to contact them. Holiday company Tui has also ended its sponsorship of the show, as well as its Australian spin-off. Channel 4 had previously told Panorama that all the allegations were "wholly uncorroborated and disputed".

Its boss Priya Dogra initially declined to apologise when asked by a reporter following the broadcast of Panorama, although she did express her "sympathy" for those who had spoken up.

The story has become one of the most prominent items on the global agenda.