Bectu responds to conflict of interest claims regarding BBC chairman appointment

Responding to conflict of interest claims surrounding BBC chairman Richard Sharp, Head of Bectu Philippa Childs said:

“As a public service broadcaster it is absolutely essential that the public and Parliament can trust the BBC to carry out its duties and appointments free from any real or perceived conflict of interest.

“The corporation has been vocal about the importance of impartiality and transparency across all levels of the organisation and in its output, and Bectu members and other staff at the BBC face intense scrutiny to this effect in carrying out their roles. The corporation must be equally scrupulous in applying these standards to members of its Board, who set its strategic vision and must ensure BBC decisions are made in the interests of the public.

“While we note confirmation that the BBC Board will review the conflict of interest claims, it is clear that in this case, with claims relating to a member of the Board, that investigation by its Board alone is not sufficient. Mr Sharp’s appointment must be fully investigated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments.”