Veteran broadcaster and journalist Edward Stourton, who spent over 40 years in media including a decade on Radio 4's Today programme, has died aged 68 after a battle with prostate cancer. Tributes poured in from colleagues praising his intellect, integrity, and kindness.
Patricia Greene, who played Jill Archer for nearly 70 years, has died aged 95. The longest-serving cast member of BBC Radio 4's The Archers, Greene first appeared in 1957. Her contribution was described as "outstanding" by the station's controller.
BBC's flagship Radio 4 Today programme faces a significant shift as correspondents are now directed to prioritize creating content for digital platforms like TikTok and Instagram. This new edict, amidst BBC-wide cuts, has raised concerns among staff and insiders about the traditional broadcast's quality and relevance.
BBC Radio 4's "The World Tonight" is being cancelled after over 50 years as part of significant cost-saving measures. The cuts will also lead to job losses, program reductions, and a review of BBC channels and stations, with a focus on shifting content to digital platforms.
Conservative leader warns of rising ethnic tensions in the UK, citing political exploitation of conflicts that could lead to civil war if not addressed, amidst debates on English national identity.
Former Home Secretary Dominic Grieve suggested the Attorney General might review "unusual" non-custodial sentences for three teenage boys convicted of rape. Barrister Charlotte Proudman argued such sentences risk deterring victims from reporting sexual violence.
Matt Brittin, the new BBC Director General, has warned staff of "tough choices" and "sweeping cuts" as his first day coincided with a strike by journalists over increased workloads. Insiders see the strike as a sign of challenges Brittin faces in implementing budget cuts.
Green Party leader Zack Polanski has said he would discourage use of the phrase "globalise the intifada" on pro-Palestine marches but insists he is not interested in policing people's language. Speaking to the BBC, Polanski said he wants people to be more effective in their protests and can make their point without using controversial phrases. His comments come as Prime Minister Keir Starmer threatened to ban some pro-Palestine demonstrations and called for tougher action on language used on protest marches. The transport secretary Heidi Alexander meanwhile described Polanski's retweet of a post criticizing police after the Golders Green attack as "disgusting" and "absolutely abhorrent", saying he is not fit to lead a political party.
PM says there are instances in which he would support bans but organisers say this would ‘strike at root of free speech’Organisers of pro-Palestine marches have said Keir Starmer’s threat to ban some demonstrations opposing Israel’s actions in the Middle East will “strike at the root of free assembly and free speech” in the UK.On Saturday morning, the prime minister told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme that “there are instances” in which he would support stopping some pro-Palestine protests altogether. Continue reading...
