Archive · 20 Aug 2025
Ex-BBC News Chief Advocates for Corporation Independence
James Harding, former head of BBC News, wants the BBC to be free from political control.
He suggests the BBC's leaders should be chosen by the board, not politicians.
Harding believes this will make the BBC better.
He wants the BBC to be a "People's Platform," sharing all kinds of ideas while staying accurate and fair.
He also said the BBC is not anti-semitic.
Harding thinks current affairs shows could be made by outside companies to make things better.
Former BBC News chief James Harding advocates for BBC independence from political influence.
Harding proposes changes to the BBC's appointment process, suggesting the board should select the chair and directors.
He argues that the BBC should operate as a "People's Platform", embracing diverse thinking and upholding accuracy.
Harding denies accusations of institutional antisemitism within the BBC.
He suggests opening up current affairs shows to independent producers.
- Who
- James Harding, former director of BBC News.
- What
- James Harding delivered a blueprint for the BBC to be free from political interference and pivot to being the "People's Platform".
- When
- The speech was delivered at the Edinburgh TV Festival.
- Where
- Edinburgh, UK.
- Why
- To advocate for BBC independence and reform, particularly regarding political influence.
Supporters of Independence
Status Quo
Political Interference
Supporters of Independence
Advocates for BBC independence from political influence
Status Quo
N/A
- Speaker
- James Harding
- Event
- Edinburgh TV Festival
- Former Position
- Director of BBC News
- Current Role
- Editor-in-chief of The Observer and co-founder of Tortoise Media
- Main Idea
- BBC Independence