Breaching the rules

The expected publication of an investigation into BBC chairman Richard Sharp's alleged failure to declare his role in arranging a loan for then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson is imminent.

The investigation was conducted by the country's public appointments watchdog, which was tasked with examining Sharp's selection by the government as the broadcaster's chairman in 2021.

The independent report, written by Adam Heppinstall, will scrutinize whether Sharp fully disclosed his involvement in facilitating an £800,000 loan for Johnson before being appointed. If the report concludes that Sharp breached the rules, it will likely lead to calls for his resignation.

Sharp denies any misconduct and asserts that he had no role in organizing the loan or securing any funds, aside from connecting Canadian entrepreneur Sam Blyth with a government representative in late 2020. Nonetheless, a legislative panel had previously reprimanded him in February, citing "substantial lapses in judgement" for not revealing his part in facilitating the financing.

The parliamentary committee stated that Sharp's failure to disclose the matter was a violation of the standards expected of individuals applying for such public appointments. Consequently, Keir Starmer, the leader of the main opposition party, has called for Sharp's resignation, citing the untenability of his position.

The appointment of the BBC chairman is subject to the recommendation of the government, highlighting the significance of government involvement in this process.