BBC appoints Laura Kuenssberg as political editor amid shake up
The BBC yesterday announced the appointment of Laura Kuenssberg as political editor, taking over from Nick Robinson.
Kuenssberg, who has been chief correspondent and a presenter on Newsnight since February 2014, previously served as business editor at ITV News between 2011 and 2014.
She said yesterday: “I’m completely delighted and I recognise the responsibility on my shoulders. It’s an honour for me to follow Nick Robinson who has been such an outstanding political editor.”
Tony Hall, BBC director-general, said: “We’re lucky to have had Nick in the role for 10 years now – and a brilliant field of candidates for what is one of the best jobs in broadcasting. But I’m sure Laura will bring something extra to the role – something of her own style.”
Kuenssberg takes up the role as the BBC faces a period of unrest.
The Conservative government has put the broadcaster under the microscope, with a review of its royal charter underway.
Culture secretary John Whittingdale said the review would look at the size of the BBC and the way it is funded, and questioned whether the public broadcaster should continue to try to be “all things to all people”.
The government also recently passed the £750m cost of free TV licences for over-75s back to the corporation.