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BBC snap up GB News alumnus

Photo by Peter Macdiarmid/Getty Images

Is the BBC trying to mend its ways? Word reaches Mr S that John McAndrew – the former head honcho of GB News – is returning to Broadcasting House as the Corporation’s new Director of News Programmes. The TV veteran boasts more than a quarter of a century of experience in news and current affairs broadcasting, holding senior roles across a smorgasbord of stations including the Beeb, Sky, ITN and NBC.

McAndrew was also the first Editorial Director and Director of Programming at GB News, but left after less than a month following the suspension of presenter Guto Harri for taking the knee live-on air. Since then he’s found a safer berth as the launch editor of the Andrew Neil Show for Channel 4, having previously worked with the former Sunday Times editor on the Daily Politics show in the mid-noughties. McAndrew was also tipped for the top job at BBC News last year; a role which went instead to then-ITN chief exec Deborah Turness, to whom he will now report.

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Steerpike

Steerpike is The Spectator's gossip columnist, serving up the latest tittle tattle from Westminster and beyond. Email tips to steerpike@spectator.co.uk or message @MrSteerpike

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