SWITCH OFF FREEVIEW
It has been reported that the Culture Secretary is preparing to say yes to a proposal to switch off free terrestrial TV in the form of Freeview.
Lisa Nandy is expected to green-light a BBC-backed move to shut down the Freeview service, used in 10 million homes, as viewers shift to internet-only streaming TV. It would be a hugely controversial move but would save the BBC a lot of money at a time of major cuts. However, MPs warn voters will punish Labour if free digital TV is switched off in a move to streaming by voters who cannot afford high-speed broadband services to watch TV they currently receive for free. The switch would remove access to more than 70 standard channels, and up to 15 HD channels.
REPRIMAND
It has been revealed that Victoria Derbyshire has received a reprimand from BBC bosses after an investigation, launched in October, over bullying allegations at Newsnight. Senior staff reviewed allegations of unprofessional behaviour that sources said presenters, editors and producers, had either been subject to or witnessed. Although mulltiple claims were made against Derbyshire, they were not upheld and she denied all allegations. However, steps were still taken to reprimand her behaviour.
END OF AN ERA
Bob Harris, the legendary broadcaster has made the decision to step down due to ill health from his Radio 2 shows Country (Thursdays, 9-10pm) and Sounds of the 70s (Sundays, 3-5pm). His statement said
“It’s incredible to think that my broadcasting career has spanned almost 56 years. I am very fortunate to have spent my entire working life doing something I love so much. I am a massive BBC loyalist, and I’m grateful that I have always been given the freedom to build my programmes in my own way. He ended his statement by saying …”
This has been one of the hardest decisions of my life, but I would never want to be doing programmes knowing that I am unable to give you 100%. I am going to miss you, and I love you very much. Thank you for listening.”
