A controversial BBC Scotland drama from 1973 resurfaces, shedding light on a politically turbulent time in Scottish history.
In 1973, BBC Scotland produced a gripping drama series titled “Scotch on the Rocks,” set in a fictional Scotland on the brink of violent conflict. However, due to political sensitivities and a formal complaint from the Scottish National Party (SNP), the series was never aired again. Now, after 50 years, the drama has resurfaced, offering a unique glimpse into a politically charged era in Scottish history.
The Birth of “Scotch on the Rocks”:
“Scotch on the Rocks” was the brainchild of Douglas Hurd, a rising star in the Conservative Party who would later become Margaret Thatcher’s home secretary. Originally a trilogy of novels, Hurd’s third book was adapted into a five-part political thriller by BBC Scotland in 1973. The production aimed to showcase high-budget, high-profile drama for the entire BBC network.
Behind the Scenes:
The production of “Scotch on the Rocks” was a challenging yet rewarding experience for the cast and crew. With a talented director and a good budget, the series attracted some of the best actors of the time. Alex Norton, now a renowned film and television star, reminisces about the unconventional methods used to overcome production obstacles, such as substituting a statue of Queen Victoria with a man on horseback for an explosive scene. Despite these challenges, the series was well-received by both audiences and critics.
Controversy and Fallout:
However, the political climate surrounding the Scottish independence movement cast a shadow over the success of “Scotch on the Rocks.” The SNP, gaining momentum in opinion polls and pushing for a Scottish assembly, called for the series to be shelved. Though their request was denied, the drama faced intense scrutiny after its release. The SNP’s formal complaint to the BBC’s Programmes Complaints Commission (PCC) was eventually upheld, leading to the series being pulled from the airwaves.
Legacy and Reflection:
Despite the controversy, many believe that “Scotch on the Rocks” had a lasting impact on Scottish consciousness. Michael Russell, current president of the SNP, sees the drama as a catalyst for raising awareness of Scotland as a nation. Alex Norton expresses his disappointment at the series’ disappearance and hopes for a re-airing, while Chris Kaye, who worked on the production, longs to see it again. BBC Scotland acknowledges the possibility of showing the series in the future, provided the historic complaint is handled carefully.
Conclusion:
“Scotch on the Rocks” remains a historical curiosity, reflecting a politically turbulent time in Scottish history. While the controversy surrounding the drama may have overshadowed its original intent, the series serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to shape public consciousness. With the passage of time, there is hope that “Scotch on the Rocks” can be appreciated once again, offering a unique perspective on a pivotal period in Scotland’s journey towards independence.
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