BBC 'in talks' with Sir Alan over new government job

15th June 2009

The BBC is engaged in talks with Apprentice star Sir Alan Sugar over his new government role to ensure that the channel's impartiality is not compromised.

The Conservatives have complained that the BBC's rules state that its presenters must be politically neutral. Shadow Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt commented that Sugar "needs to make a choice."

The BBC are engaged in discussions with Sir Alan about what his new government role specifically involves, but do not envisage a conflict of interest as they classify The Apprentice as an entertainment programme.

"I don't see this as a political thing. I've a passion to try to help small businesses," said Sir Alan.

Source: Newbusiness.co.uk