BBC knew about Scott Mills investigation in 2017 and sacked him in light of 'new information'
The BBC knew about a police investigation into DJ Scott Mills in 2017 but obtained “new information” in the weeks prior to his sacking and “acted decisively”, the corporation announced today.
Listen to this article
In a statement, a BBC spokesperson said: “Scott Mills had a long career across the BBC, he was hugely popular and we know the news this week has come as a shock and surprise to many.
“We also recognise there’s been much speculation in the media and online since Monday. We hope people understand that there is a limit to what we can say because we have to be mindful of the rights of those involved.
"What we can confirm is that in recent weeks, we obtained new information relating to Scott and we spoke directly with him. As a result, the BBC acted decisively in line with our culture and values and terminated his contracts on Friday 27 March.
“The BBC has made a significant commitment to improve its culture, processes and standards. Last year, following an independent culture review, we set out the behavioural expectations for everyone who works with or for the BBC and we were clear action would be taken if these were not met.
Read more: Europe told to 'drive less and avoid flying' as last Middle East fuel tankers arrive
“Separately, we can confirm the BBC was made aware in 2017 of the existence of an ongoing police investigation, which was subsequently closed in 2019 with no arrest or charge being made. We are doing more work to understand the detail of what was known by the BBC at this time.”
Scott’s co-presenter Tina Daheley took to social media on Wednesday to admit that it’s been an “awful week.”
She shared a photo of herself in bed with a cup of tea and wrote: “Good morning! Just about recovered from this awful cold/flu.
“I’ve had for the past week (being parent to a primary school aged child is like having a subscription service to viruses!).”
She said she would be taking time off over Easter and would return to work on April 21.
“Good news is I’m over the worst of it and looking forward to spending two weeks with my family over the Easter hols from tomorrow after what’s been an incredibly difficult past week,” she said.
“I’ll be back on the radio Tuesday 21st April.”