Tim Davie has dramatically resigned as director-general of the BBC following a backlash over the doctoring of a Donald Trump speech.
The corporation’s CEO of News, Deborah Turness, also stepped down amid criticism viewers had been misled.
This evening Mr Davie admitted he had to ‘take responsibility’ and that ‘mistakes had been made’ after the documentary, ‘Trump: A second Chance?’ was broadcast – prompting the Whitehouse to accuse the BBC of ‘100 per cent fake news’.
Politicians and corporation staff have now reacted to Mr Davie’s departure, with some offering their ‘full support’ for the former BBC chief and others greeting the announcement as ‘good news’.
Tim Davie’s statement in full
‘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. 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.
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