The BBC has resumed its investigation into Huw Edwards after the newsreader was identified by his wife as the BBC presenter at the heart of a sex scandal
Former BBC journalists have criticised the broadcaster’s coverage of the allegations against Huw Edwards, branding it a “disgrace” and “distasteful”.
Speaking on their podcast The News Agents, Emily Maitlis questioned why staff had not informed HR of the claims, while Jon Sopel added that many within the corporation were “distraught” at the coverage.
BBC journalists had reportedly begun working on a potential expose about the TV star before The Sun published claims about him allegedly paying a young adult for sexually explicit images.
Sources have claimed that Newsnight host Victoria Derbyshire had been carrying out enquiries “for a while” into the newsreader’s conduct, according to the website Deadline.
Two BBC insiders claimed that Ms Derbyshire had contacted multiple individuals, while another downplayed the work and denied it had been an investigation, saying no evidence of wrongdoing was found.
It comes after Newsnight alleged that a current staff member had been left feeling uncomfortable after being contacted on social media by Mr Edwards.
The 61-year-old was identified by his wife, Vicky Flind, as the presenter at the centre of the controversy and stated he was receiving treatment in hospital for his mental health. She stated that it was his intention to respond to the claims “once well enough to do so”.
The Metropolitan Police have said no criminal offence has been committed by Edwards and no further police action will be taken “at this time”, allowing an internal BBC investigation to resume.
