The BBC has confirmed the first details of its Panorama investigation into David Sullivan, the former joint chairman of West Ham United and Welsh billionaire, following improper conduct allegations. The episode, titled 'Predator: The Billionaire Football Boss', airs tonight at 8pm on BBC One.
Programme Details Revealed
A TV listing for the programme has appeared online, describing it as a joint investigation by Panorama and The Times newspaper into Sullivan's behaviour. The listing states: 'Over decades, he has made millions from pornography, newspapers and football.' The BBC had previously confirmed at the weekend that it was working on an investigation into Sullivan and his conduct.
Sullivan's Resignation
Sullivan stepped down from his role as joint chairman of West Ham on June 6. In a statement, he said: 'After very careful consideration and with a heavy heart, I have decided to resign as joint-chair and director of West Ham United FC with immediate effect.' He added that he was stepping aside to contest what he described as false allegations regarding his behaviour.
Response to Allegations
Sullivan stated: 'After a lifetime spent building businesses in the adult industry in which I have met thousands of women, it is sadly inevitable that a small number of improper conduct claims are being made against me.' He claimed the process was 'fundamentally unfair' and lacking impartiality, adding: 'I will be suing the BBC for libel, along with any other media outlet that repeats any libellous allegations.' He emphasised that none of the allegations relate to his more than 30 years in football.
Background
Sullivan, born in Cardiff and raised in a Penarth council house, is the fifth richest person from Wales, with a net worth recently estimated at £1.1 billion in the Sunday Times Rich List. The Panorama episode 'Predator: The Billionaire Football Boss' airs tonight at 8pm on BBC One.
