Statement by Stephen Mitchell: “I have decided to retire from the BBC”

Stephen Mitchell, who has quit as BBC deputy director of news, has issued a statement following the Pollard Review into Newsnight’s handling of the Savile allegations.

“It is with great sadness that I have decided to retire from the BBC after more than 38 years’ service of which I am very proud and which I have found greatly enjoyable.

“Given the strain over the past month since being told to stand aside from the job I loved, having endured the Pollard review process and now having read its criticisms, I have decided that it is in my interests and those of the BBC that I bring my career to a dignified end.

“Whilst I feel vindicated that the review has found that I put no undue pressure on Peter Rippon, I disagree with the remainder of Mr Pollard’s criticisms in relation to me.

“I am grateful for all the support I have received from friends and colleagues around the BBC.”