Scientology to Expose BBC Tactics; Shows Cleared in Phonelines Probe

The Church of Scientology is launching a website and magazine in its campaign against the BBC, aimed at exposing its rogue documentary tactics.

It comes amid a growing row over a Panorama investigation into the religious sect, which is due to be screened tonight.

During filming, reporter John Sweeney lost his temper and shouted at Scientology representative Tommy Davis. Footage of the scene which Scientologists say is proof of bias was posted on internet site YouTube. Scientologists have also spent a reported Pounds 30,000 sending 100,000 copies of a DVD of the incident to MPs, media groups, religious leaders and heads of business.

MrSweeney claims he and some of his film team were spied upon by Scientologists.

Now Scientology chiefs are to go live with an anti-BBC web-site, www.bbcpanorama-exposed. net, where visitors can order a magazine containing alleged criticisms of the BBC.

Mike Rinder, a director of Scientology International, told the Standard that the claims of spying were an absolute and utter lie and indicated the church may consider legal action.

Panorama editor Sandy Smith today defended Mr Sweeney and vowed the documentary would be broadcast.

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