The BBC has released a statement following criticism of their Question Time Leaders' Debate coverage. 

Footage aired live on the programme was edited on a news bulletin the next day removing laughter directed at the Prime Minister.

During the debate, the first audience member asked Boris Johnson "I’d just like to ask you how important is it for someone in your position of power to always tell the truth?" which sparked laughter from the audience. This was removed during the airing of the BBC news bulletin at 1pm the next day. 

READ MORE: BBC in fresh bias row amid claims they removed audience laughter at Boris Johnson on Question Time 

BBC responded to one of the accusatory tweets and said the clip was deliberately shortened for timing reasons. They wrote: "This clip, which was played in full on the 10 o’clock news last night, was shortened for timing reasons in today’s lunchtime bulletin."

The corporation has since released a statement clarifying their stance.

In a statement on social media, they wrote: "This clip from the BBC's Question Time special, which was played in full on the News at Ten on Friday evening and on other outlets, was shortened for timing reasons on Saturday's lunchtime bulletin, to edit our repetitious phrases from Boris Johnson. However, in doing so we edited out laughter from the audience.

"Although there was absolutely no intention to mislead, we accept this was a mistake on our part, as it didn't reflect the full reaction to Boris Johnson's answer. 

READ MORE: Question Time audience bursts into laughter over panellists' Boris Johnson comment 

"We did not alter the soundtrack or image in any way apart from this edit, contrary to some claims on social media." 

Boris Johnson took to the stage with leaders of Westminster's other largest parties; Jeremy Corbyn, Jo Swinson and Nicola Sturgeon.

They were each given 30 minutes to take questions from the live audience in Sheffield.