Shumeet Banerji, a non-executive director on the BBC board, has resigned, citing governance issues after being excluded from crucial discussions that led to the resignation of director general Tim Davie and BBC News chief Deborah Turness. Banerji was out of the country during the key talks, which followed allegations of liberal bias made by former adviser Michael Prescott.
In a letter seen by BBC News, Banerji said he had not been consulted about the events leading up to the departures. His resignation is seen as a criticism of BBC chair Samir Shah, who has dismissed claims of a 'coup' by the political right as fanciful. Banerji's departure leaves the board more depleted as it begins the search for a new director general.
The controversy centres on a memo from Prescott, who raised concerns about systemic bias in coverage of Donald Trump, Gaza and transgender rights. The memo was leaked to the Daily Telegraph. Prescott's advisory role was overseen by a panel that included board member Sir Robbie Gibb, a former Conservative communications chief, who has repeatedly raised bias issues. Some BBC insiders have noted an alignment between Gibb's concerns and Prescott's, though Prescott denies a political agenda.
Banerji was often seen as a counterweight to Gibb's complaints. His resignation comes as Gibb and Prescott are due to appear before MPs on Monday to answer questions from the Commons culture, media and sport committee. MPs, BBC staff and the Bectu union have called for Gibb's removal over alleged political interference, while his friends say he acts out of genuine concern for impartiality.
A BBC spokesperson confirmed Banerji's resignation, noting his term was due to end in December, and said the search for a replacement is well under way.
