The controversial 1973 BBC Scotland drama series that has never been aired since its initial transmission
In 1973, BBC Scotland produced a gripping and politically charged drama series titled “Scotch on the Rocks.” The show depicted a fictional scenario of paramilitary soldiers from the Scottish Liberation Army taking over the town of Fort William amidst the backdrop of the battle for Scottish independence. However, due to mounting controversy and political pressure, the show was never aired again, becoming a locked away TV drama for 50 years. This article explores the origins of the show, the challenges faced during production, the aftermath of its transmission, and the possibility of it being shown again.
1: The Creation of “Scotch on the Rocks”
“Scotch on the Rocks” was based on a trilogy of novels written by Douglas Hurd, who would later become Margaret Thatcher’s home secretary. Hurd, a rising star in the Conservative Party, penned the novels in the late 1960s before transitioning into politics. The TV adaptation of his third novel was a complex and violent political thriller that aimed to showcase BBC Scotland’s ability to produce high-budget, high-profile drama for the entire BBC network.
2: The Challenging Production
Chris Kaye, a young assistant to the program’s director, recalls the production of “Scotch on the Rocks” as the best project he ever worked on. The show had a substantial budget and featured talented actors. Despite challenges, such as last-minute changes to explosive scenes, the production went smoothly. Filming battles on the streets of Fort William added to the authenticity of the drama.
3: Political Turbulence and Controversy
The transmission of “Scotch on the Rocks” coincided with a politically turbulent time in Scotland. The Scottish National Party (SNP) was gaining popularity, and the Conservative government under Ted Heath was grappling with industrial disputes and unrest in Northern Ireland. The SNP’s leader, Gordon Wilson, called for the show to be shelved, but the request was denied. However, after its broadcast, pressure mounted on the program’s creators, detracting from its initial success.
4: The Fallout and Complaints
The SNP lodged a formal complaint against “Scotch on the Rocks,” arguing that the use of the party’s name and logo in the drama created the risk of viewers associating the real SNP with violence. The BBC’s Programmes Complaints Commission (PCC) upheld the complaint, resulting in the show being banned from ever being aired again. The controversy surrounding the drama overshadowed the positive reviews and audience reception it initially received.
5: Reflections and Possibility of a Comeback
Today, “Scotch on the Rocks” is considered a historical curiosity. Michael Russell, the current president of the SNP, believes that the show raised awareness and consciousness about Scotland as a nation. Despite its controversial past, Russell and others express a desire to see the show aired again. However, with two of the five episodes missing from the BBC archive, a repeat remains unlikely unless those missing episodes are found.
Conclusion:
“Scotch on the Rocks” remains a locked away TV drama, hidden from public view for 50 years due to political controversy. The show, though fictional, sparked intense debates and complaints from the SNP, leading to its banishment from the airwaves. While some believe it is a historical curiosity that could be shown again, the missing episodes and the potential for renewed controversy make its return uncertain. Nevertheless, “Scotch on the Rocks” serves as a reminder of the power of television to ignite political discussions and shape public perceptions.
Leave a Reply