The implementation of this next round of cuts at BBC World Service requires the dismantling of a number of well-preserved totems in English language output.
The bulk of production aimed at Africa is moving to Africa. Heaven forfend that cost is a factor. The presence of African expertise in London over the years has helped immensely with the wider task of setting a truly international agenda. The posts of London-based regional editors are to go, to be replaced by 'global affairs' reporters; another loss in specialist perspective, immensely useful both on breaking stories and context.
0100 chatfest Business Matters is axed; The Newsroom will run seven days a week in the slot. This requires an end to the four-on, four-off newsroom working pattern defended by the NUJ at Bush for years and years. In the old days, a Bush sub could forecast their availability for golf in December from the start of the January rota.
World Service newsreaders will in future be employed by the central Radio Newsroom management; expect more exchange of voices with Radio 4.
Other shows to go: The Forum, The Cultural Frontline, The Explanation, Pick of The World and Over to You.
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