Conduct of Sir Robbie Gibb and the independence of the BBC Board

That this House notes with concern reports regarding the conduct of Sir Robbie Gibb in his capacity as a member of the BBC Board; recognises the importance of maintaining the Corporation's independence and the confidence of the public in its governance and editorial processes; observes that there have been claims of Gibb's involvement in recruitment matters and editorial discussions that may have given rise to perceptions of partiality; further notes concerns that alleged delays precipitated by Gibb in addressing issues arising from the 2021 Panorama documentary created uncertainty about the Corporation's position; acknowledges that questions have been raised about the processes leading to certain senior appointments; considers that public trust in the BBC's impartiality depends on transparent and independent governance; believes that the impartiality of future appointments cannot be assured while he remains on the Board; and therefore calls upon the Government to remove Sir Robbie Gibb from his current position and to ensure that all future BBC Board appointments are conducted entirely independently of political influence.