The BBC announced on Wednesday (January 29th) the loss of 450 editorial staff as part of a plan to 'Modernization' aiming to adapt to new public practices, to the approach of negotiations which promise to be politically difficult on its financing.
"We need to reshape BBC News for the next decade to save substantial amounts", Information Director Fran Unsworth said in a statement that the job losses associated with the changes are estimated to be around 450.
The public audiovisual group wants to remove duplication between its different media and invest more in digital, with a new version of its BBC News application. More journalists will be based outside London.
"The BBC must adapt to changes in the way the public uses us. We have to adapt and make sure that we continue to be the most reliable media organization in the world, but most importantly, that we are relevant to the people we are not currently reaching. ”added Ms. Unsworth.
95 million euros saved
The BBC says it will save £ 80 million (around € 95 million) by 2022, half of which has already been saved, the other half to be saved thanks to measures announced on Wednesday. In particular, it must compensate for the abolition of the TV license for the over 75s from June.
The license fee (154.50 pounds sterling, or 178 euros) is its main source of revenue, but the funding of the British public service giant must be discussed again in 2022, in a tumultuous context with the authorities.
Angered by his coverage of last month's legislative elections, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has spoken out in favor of a drop in fees and a reduction in fines for those who do not pay it, calling into question the funding of the audiovisual group which employs in total nearly 22,000 people.
BBC chief executive Tony Hall announced his resignation on January 20 in "Organizational interests".
According to several British media, this early departure angered Downing Street. It allows that the replacement of Tony Hall is decided by the current president of the organization, David Clementi, and not the successor of the latter who must be appointed by the government.
