BBC Director-General Tim Davie and BBC News CEO Deborah Turness resign
The BBC has announced that its Director-General Tim Davie and BBC News CEO Deborah Turness have resigned.
BBC Director-General Tim Davie and BBC News CEO Deborah Turness have resigned.
It comes amid criticism over bias at the corporation, including the way in which a speech by US President Donald Trump, 79, was edited, the Israel-Hamas war - of which a documentary about Gaza was pulled earlier this year because the son of a deputy minister in the Hamas-run government was in it - and trans issues.
The Daily Telegraph reported that an internal document, made by an ex-BBC adviser for standards, outlined a list of errors.
And one suggested that the corporation's investigative documentary series Panorama put together two edited parts of the Republican Commander-in-Chief's speech, appearing that he encouraged the Capitol Hill riots back in January 2021 - which President Trump did not.
In the documentary, President Trump was shown telling his supporters that "we’re going to walk down to the Capitol" and how they would "fight like hell" - a comment which the politician made in a different part of his lengthy speech.
Now, Mr. Davie, 58, is working with the corporation's Board to "allow for an orderly transition to a successor over the coming months".
In a note to BBC staff, Mr. Davie - who was appointed Director-General in 2020 - said: "I wanted to let you know that I have decided to leave the BBC after 20 years. This is entirely my decision, and I remain very thankful to the Chair and Board for their unswerving and unanimous support throughout my entire tenure, including during recent days.
"I am working through exact timings with the Board to allow for an orderly transition to a successor over the coming months.
"I have been reflecting on the very intense personal and professional demands of managing this role over many years in these febrile times, combined with the fact that I want to give a successor time to help shape the Charter plans they will be delivering.
"In these increasingly polarised times, the BBC is of unique value and speaks to the very best of us. It helps make the UK a special place; overwhelmingly kind, tolerant and curious."
Mr. Davie admitted the BBC has made "some mistakes" - which he takes "ultimate responsibility" for.
He continued: "Like all public organisations, the BBC is not perfect, and we must always be open, transparent and accountable. While not being the only reason, the current debate around BBC News has understandably contributed to my decision.
"Overall, the BBC is delivering well, but there have been some mistakes made and as Director-General I have to take ultimate responsibility.
"Our organisation is a critical ingredient of a healthy society, as well as a thriving creative sector. We should champion it, not weaponise it.
"Despite a hugely competitive market, I am proud that the BBC remains the most trusted news brand globally. We have continued to ensure that it is used by almost everyone in the UK, as well as hundreds of millions of people globally.
"Despite the inevitable issues and challenges, our journalism and quality content continues to be admired as a gold standard. Our transition to a digital organisation has been deeply impressive, and our thriving commercial businesses are admired globally.
"Also, our work together on ensuring that we have the right culture has been important and motivating. I could not be more impressed by what you are achieving."
With the process now in motion for a new Director-General to succeed Mr. Davie, he aims to "create the best conditions and space" for the new Director-General to step into.
Mr. Davie said: "I am BBC through and through, having spent the last 20 years of my life working for this organisation as Director of Marketing, Communications and Audiences, Director of Audio and Music, acting Director-General and Chief Executive of BBC Studios.
"I care deeply about it and want it to succeed. That is why I want to create the best conditions and space for a new DG to come in and positively shape the next Royal Charter.
"I hope that as we move forward, a sensible, calm and rational public conversation can take place about the next chapter of the BBC.
"This timing allows a new DG to help shape the next Charter. I believe we are in a strong position to deliver growth."
Mr. Davie concluded his lengthy note by thanking BBC staff for their "tireless support and friendship" over the years.
He continued: "Thank you again, it has been a wonderful ride, which I have loved. I count myself very lucky to have served as DG no.17.
"I will have a proper chance to see many of you before I go, but I have been incredibly proud to lead the BBC as DG for over five years. It is a precious UK institution, and you are a world-class team.
"Thank you all for the tireless support and friendship. I will always be a passionate cheerleader for civilised society, a strong BBC and a thriving UK.
"Best wishes, Tim."
BBC Chairman Samir Shah, 73, declared Mr. Davie's resignation as a "sad day" for the corporation.
Mr. Shah added: "Tim has been an outstanding Director-General for the last five years. He has propelled the BBC forward with determination, single-mindedness and foresight.
"He has had the full support of me and the Board throughout. However, I understand the continued pressure on him, personally and professionally, which has led him to take this decision today. The whole Board respects the decision and the reasons for it.
"Tim has given 20 years of his life to the BBC. He is a devoted and inspirational leader and an absolute believer in the BBC and public service broadcasting.
"He has achieved a great deal. Foremost, under his tenure, the transformation of the BBC to meet the challenges in a world of unprecedented change and competition is well underway."
He continued: "Personally, I will miss his stamina, good humour and resilience, and I will miss working with him. I wish him and his family the very best for the future.
"This is an important time for the Corporation and the Board, and I will continue to work with Tim in the interim while we conduct the process to appoint his successor."
