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Charities slam boys and girls' Big Brother
Danny Brierley02.02.09
CHANNEL 4 bosses have been accused of shamelessly exploiting children to boost ratings with a new Big Brother-style programme.
The documentary, called Boys and Girls Alone, features children aged between eight and 12 and is billed as a chance for them "to experience life without adults". But they are shown sobbing as their efforts to fend for themselves prove impossible.
Children's charities said the show, which will be broadcast tomorrow night, served no purpose other than to cynically pull in viewers.
Labour MP Denis MacShane said: "Children should be protected and not exploited for commercial gain."
A Channel 4 spokesman said: "A lot of positive things come out. It has a number of uplifting moments."
