This issue has been discussed with senior editors at BBC News.  As the host of the UK’s biggest breakfast radio show, and a prominent face on BBC radio and television for over 25 years, Scott Mills’ sudden sacking from his role provoked widespread reaction and speculation across the media and online.  There were high levels of audience interest in this story, with this being the most read story on the BBC News website this year.  

Of course, during this period, we continued to report on other issues of national and international significance.  

BBC News reports on the BBC independently and impartially in the same way as we would with any other organisation.  In this context, we examined the reputational implications for the BBC and questions raised over how the corporation has handled this matter.

Since the news of Mills’ departure from the BBC initially broke, new information has emerged.  It is appropriate that we have reported on these developments.  Throughout our coverage we have transparently explained the facts related to this case that are known and the details we are still unclear on.  We have included statements from the BBC, Scott Mills and the Metropolitan Police.

We believe our approach to this story was proportionate, reflecting public interest and addressing the issues at hand.  However, we appreciate not everyone will agree with the decisions we make about the stories we cover.