David Dimbleby Demands Cross-Party Panel for BBC Chair
Veteran broadcaster David Dimbleby, who twice missed out on the BBC Chair job, has slammed the current appointment process. He wants a “cross party” public commission to pick the next boss — not just the Prime Minister.
Suspicions Over Government Influence
Dimbleby argues the current system, a so-called “fair and open competition” ending with the PM’s choice, stinks of government interference. He warns this risks jeopardising the BBC’s impartiality, fairness, and balance.
Gary Lineker and MPs Join the Call for Reform
- Match of the Day host Gary Lineker also slammed the setup, insisting the chairman shouldn’t be picked by the sitting government.
- Acting Commons culture chair Damian Green backed the push, urging candidates to declare any conflicts of interest during interviews to boost transparency and trust.
But Official Rules Still Back Government Panel
Yet the Broadcasting Royal Charter sticks to the current rules: a “fair and open competition” with the final decision made by a government-appointed panel, advised by the culture secretary. No sign yet of a shake-up.
