Sara Cox has given a blunt response regarding Scott Mills' recent dismissal from the BBC, as she gears up to take over the BBC Radio 2 Breakfast show next week. Back in April, The Mirror revealed that Scott had been let go from his position at the station after details of a previous police investigation into him came to light.
The 53-year-old was questioned by police under caution in 2018 following allegations of serious sexual offences against a boy under the age of 16. The alleged offences are said to have taken place between 1997 and 2000, when Scott would have been in his mid-20s. A full file was submitted to the CPS, who concluded there was not enough evidence to bring charges against him. It has since been reported that Scott has instructed lawyers to pursue an unfair dismissal claim against the BBC, with a source telling the publication: "It's going to get very messy indeed."
Cox's Response to Questions About Mills
Ahead of her debut on the BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show, Sara was pressed on the matter of Scott, though was understandably reluctant to be drawn on the subject. Speaking to Radio Times magazine, the 51-year-old said: "I understand why you're asking about Scott, but I don't know any more than what's been in the media, so I'm not commenting further."
Scott Mills' Statement on His Dismissal
In a statement posted to his Instagram page through his lawyers following his dismissal, Scott expressed his gratitude to fans for their support. He said: "I wish to thank from the bottom of my heart all those who have reached out to me with kindness, my former colleagues, and my beloved listeners, who I greatly miss." On the police investigation, he added: "The recent announcement that I am no longer contracted to the BBC has led to the publication of rumour and speculation. In response to this the Metropolitan Police has made a statement, which I confirm relates to me. An allegation was made against me in 2016 of a historic sexual offence, which was the subject of a police investigation in which I fully co-operated and responded to in 2018." He added: "Since the investigation related to an allegation that dates back nearly 30 years and the police investigation was closed seven years ago, I hope that the public and the media will understand and respect my wish not to make any further public comment on this matter."
Cox Takes Over Breakfast Show
Scott had fronted the BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show for 14 months prior to his exit, having succeeded Zoe Ball in the role. Sara is set to take over following seven and a half years presenting BBC Radio 2's Drivetime programme. Marking her departure from the show, she said in a statement: "I've had the most glorious seven years of my career on Teatime so thank you to my brilliant Teatime listeners who hopefully will join me at Breakfast for excellent music and all my usual nonsense plus some superstar guests. I honestly can't wait to wake the nation up with the biggest most fun breakfast show ever."
