Plans to merge BBC World News with its domestic counterpart the BBC News channel have been scrapped.
Staff at Broadcasting House in London were informed on Thursday morning at a meeting headed by director of news and current affairs James Harding.
The merger was one of six options on the table that were studied by BBC management. Detailed work, including a financial model, had already been carried out on the proposal that had opposition from both unions and audiences.
“Although there are strong arguments in favour of running a single news channel, we concluded that this would not be the best way of offering a UK audience and global audiences the news agenda that is most directly relevant to them,” a spokesperson told Broadband TV News.
The news was welcomed on Twitter by BBC News Channel presenter Martine Croxall who said managers were listening to staff efficiency ideas.
BBC News Channel & BBC World News safe from closure/merger. Managers listening to staff efficiency ideas. Big thanks to all who support us
— Martine Croxall (@MartineBBC) July 14, 2016
It’s thought the the two channels will now face a number of budget cuts.
There remains a number of hours shared between the two services including between 21.00 and 22.00 UK Time and again through the night.
