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The BBC has hired former Labour cabinet minister James Purnell as its radio chief
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The BBC has risked raising concerns about its impartiality by appointing James Purnell, a former Blairite Labour MP, as its director of radio on Friday.
Purnell, the BBC's director of strategy and education, will have his remit broadened to radio when the division's existing chief, Helen Boaden, retires.
The Daily Telegraph first reported the story. A BBC source also confirmed to Business Insider on Friday morning that an announcement was imminent.
Soon after, the BBC confirmed that Purnell will become director of radio and education on 31 October. Boaden will leave the BBC after more than 33 years of service in March next year.
Purnell was interviewed for the radio post by senior independent directors on the BBC's board this week. The broadcaster will also bring in a director of radio, an experienced editorial figure to carry out the day-to-day management of the division, reporting to Purnell. His £295,000 ($382,000) a year salary will remain the same.
Purnell has little programming experience and his background as a senior politician will raise concerns about whether the BBC's radio unit can be impartial under his watch.
Purnell was the work and pensions secretary in former prime minister Gordon Brown's government. He also served as the culture secretary during a nine-year tenure as a Labour MP.
Rumours about Purnell landing the radio role have been circulating for some time — and have already caused concern among some Tory politicians. Damian Collins, the acting chair of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee, told the Financial Times last month that his appointment would be "unprecedented."
"I can’t think of any other example of a former politician running such a major part of the BBC’s programming. Because of his political background there will undoubtedly be questions about impartiality," he said.
The Telegraph reported that culture secretary Karen Bradley has "decided against raising any concerns with the corporation."
Purnell was hired by BBC director general Tony Hall in 2013 as director of strategy and digital. He is one of Hall's key lieutenants and has been instrumental in steering the broadcaster through negotiations to renew its royal charter for another 11 years.
In a statement Purnell said:
"I'm delighted to have been asked to lead the new division, radio and education, bringing together arts, music and network radio with children's and learning. We're the best public service broadcaster in the world in all these areas. They're unique, but face common challenges - from reaching younger audiences to workings in partnership.
"We've got a singular advantage in all our areas: We either have or could get global rights. I want us to use this advantage to think about how we could take on the world for the benefit of our audiences and for Britain."
BBC director general Tony Hall said:
"Our role, reflecting the UK to the world, has never been more important. BBC radio is the best there is and I know it can speak — and sing — even more loudly the world over. I want real ambition: A powerhouse for radio — and our education mission around the world. I know we’ve got the people, programmes and ideas to do just that."
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