BBC editor John Simpson claims broadcaster is ‘grotesquely managed’
BBC world affairs editor John Simpson has become the latest heavyweight employee of the broadcaster to criticise its direction, after labelling the corporation as ‘grotesquely managed’ by a cabal of ‘tough women’ at the top.
Simpson has been a familiar face on the small screen since 1988, reporting on wars and famine around the globe in that time but stated that his employer was now a ‘nanny’ and a ‘ghastly outfit’.
Speaking at Ireland’s Happy Days Festival Simpson was reported to have said by The Sun: “The BBC is even more grotesquely managed now than it was then — tough women running the place now. It was nicer and gentler then. The BBC is such a nanny — and ghastly outfit."
It is thought Simpson’s words were a direct swipe against Helen Boaden, head of radio as well as political chief Sue English and newsroom head Mary Hockaday.
Other high-profile females which Simpson may have had in his sights include finance director Anne Bulford and Dame Fiona Reynolds & Alice Perkins, both non-executive directors.