BBC Four boss joins ITV

[french frank]

http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2013/may/07/bbc4-richard-klein-itv

A sudden departure, it seems:

"Klein's move follows his BBC4 budget being cut as part of the corporation's Delivering Quality First cost savings initiative.

[...]

"Cohen added that Klein would be leaving the BBC immediately, "because of obvious sensitivities" with him joining a rival broadcaster, and an acting BBC4 controller would be appointed."

Now announced that the Controller of BBC Two will take interim editorial control of BBC Four in addition to her current role.

[DracoM]

Hmm. Tony Hall behind the scenes?

[french frank]

Hmm. Tony Hall behind the scenes?

Well, the budget cuts proposed after Thompson's DQF review showed big cuts for culture/the arts - and that goes back two or three years. Klein's abrupt departure may be nothing more than ITV offering him a good job and the future looking difficult at Four.

I would see it as jumping ship because the cuts were to be spread out through to next 2016/17. And I would say, Well done, Beeb! Protect the big spending entertainment services and cut the smaller services disproportionately.

Radio 3 has also done badly over recent years whereas Radio 2 and Radio 1 have done well. Radio 4 is, of course, ring fenced as a National Treasure - and is the most expensive radio station by a long way.