‘Robust procedures’ put in place to prevent conflict of interest as Ofcom CEO applies for BBC director general role
As Ed Richards, chief executive of Ofcom, confirms that he has applied for the role of director general at the BBC, Ofcom has today released a statement saying that ‘robust procedures… have been put in place to prevent any potential conflict of interest.’
The statement began: “Given the significant level of speculation surrounding potential applicants for the BBC director general role, Ofcom can confirm that CEO Ed Richards has applied.”
The deadline for applications to take on the role, held by Mark Thompson until the end of the Olympics, was 7 May.
Ofcom added in its statement: “Ed has already stepped aside from all discussions and communication at all levels on matters where the BBC may have an interest. This includes Board meetings, executive meetings and policy discussions, both formal and informal.”
Richards previously worked as Tony Blair's senior policy advisor, helping create the Communications Act that produced Ofcom.