Laura Kuenssberg to step down as BBC political editor

Laura Kuenssberg will step down as the BBC’s political editor next Easter after seven years in the job.

She will take up a senior presenting and reporting role across the BBC including a range of news and current affairs projects across TV, radio and online.

Laura was appointed as political editor in 2015, when she became the first woman to hold the role.

She has covered two UK general elections, the Brexit referendum and its aftermath, and the government’s response to the Covid pandemic.

“I’ve been so lucky to do the best daily reporting job in the business, with the best colleagues anyone could wish for,” Laura said.

“It’s been incredible to occupy the chair during a time of such huge change and to try to make sense of it for our viewers, listeners and readers online.

“I’ll miss the daily drama, and our wonderful team in Westminster, immensely. But after nearly seven years and what feels like decades’ worth of headlines, it’s time for the next move.”

The BBC will now begin a recruitment process for Laura’s successor as political editor.