Outrage at Newsday Interviewee Calling Autism a 'Disease'

Last week the news broke that scientists had discovered a test which could lead to the earlier diagnosis of autism in children. In their coverage of the story, Newsday interviewed Dr Naila Rabbani who is leading the research in the UK. After hearing her describe autism as a “disease” and refer to children who do not have it as “healthy”, Amanda Davies from the UK and Catherine Rotte-Murray from Ireland were outraged. They put their points to the Newsday editor, Kevin Silverton.

Also, Newshour Extra has a new name and presenter. The Real Story with Carrie Gracie has now replaced the aforementioned programme while Owen Bennet Jones is pursuing other projects. Editor, Jo Floto explains the changes to listener, James Roriston from India.