BBC Radio 2 Dismisses Scott Mills Following Historic Police Investigation
Scott Mills, the longtime BBC Radio 2 presenter, has been sacked from the station this week, reportedly in connection with a historic police investigation into serious sexual offences. The decision has sent shockwaves through the BBC, with colleagues and friends expressing dismay and confusion over the sudden termination.
Allegations and Investigation Details
According to reports, the sacking relates to a 2016 Metropolitan Police investigation into allegations of serious sexual offences against a teenage boy, dating back to the period between 1997 and 2000. The complainant was under 16 at the time. The Crown Prosecution Service dropped the case around seven years ago due to a lack of evidence, and Scotland Yard confirmed their investigation was closed in 2019.
Investigative journalist Mark Williams-Thomas, known for his role in exposing Jimmy Savile, stated that Mills was interviewed by the Met in 2018 as part of a spin-off from Operation Yewtree. He noted that Mills was not charged and was permitted to continue working at the BBC.
Reaction from Colleagues and Friends
Jeremy Vine, a fellow Radio 2 presenter, publicly criticised the sacking on his show, calling it "unfair" and insisting "there's been no crime." Vine suggested the BBC might be acting out of regret over their handling of the Huw Edwards scandal, where the disgraced news presenter received a suspended sentence for making indecent images of children.
Vine highlighted inconsistencies, questioning why Edwards was not sacked due to his fragile mental state, while Mills, who has a history of anxiety and depression, did not receive similar consideration. He described the situation as a "very painful episode" and noted Mills' popularity within the corporation.
Friends report that Mills, 53, has "gone to ground" and is not taking calls, with one source stating, "The show was his life and he is facing oblivion." Steve Chalke, a friend and collaborator on the Breakfast Show's Pause For Thoughts segment, expressed "grief, loss, sadness, and shock," emphasising concern for Mills' mental health and that of any potential victims.
Internal BBC Shock and Speculation
Inside the BBC, the sacking has caused "total shock," with staff reportedly gasping audibly upon receiving the news via email from BBC director of music Lorna Clarke. Colleagues described Mills as "kind and generous," and "hugely popular," with many devastated by the decision.
Sources indicate that wild rumours are circulating at Broadcasting House about the reasons behind the swift action, with one insider noting, "No suspension period or prolonged investigation does not bode well." Some executives believe the timing may be linked to the recent docu-drama "Power: The Downfall Of Huw Edwards," suggesting the complainant may have been inspired to come forward again due to the publicity.
BBC's Response and Ongoing Questions
The BBC has declined to comment on the specifics of Mills' sacking, stating only that it was related to his "personal conduct." The corporation faces pressure to explain what they knew about the police investigation and when, especially as it is reported that former director general Tony Hall was unaware of the allegations at the time.
Mills, who joined BBC Radio 1 in 1998 after working at Heart FM and local radio stations, left the BBC after 28 years. The sacking occurred just six days after his final Radio 2 breakfast show, adding to the abrupt nature of his departure.
Broader Implications
This incident raises questions about the BBC's handling of historical allegations and its consistency in disciplinary actions. With colleagues like Jeremy Vine openly questioning the fairness of the decision, the case highlights ongoing tensions within the corporation regarding transparency and employee welfare.
As friends struggle to contact Mills and the BBC remains tight-lipped, the fallout from this sacking continues to unfold, leaving many in the broadcasting world seeking clarity and justice.
