BBC digital learning boss quits

I made an error of judgement and, as a consequence, I have decided to leave the BBC

Michael Stevenson

The man in charge of the BBC's online learning plans, Michael Stevenson, is quitting the corporation.

His move follows an internal inquiry which found he had acted wrongly in discussing a possible partner for the BBC's "digital curriculum" proposal - before it had received government approval.

The project director, Clare Riley, has also resigned.

The government gave approval for the digital curriculum earlier this month.

Commercial media and software companies believe the free BBC service means schools will be less likely to buy their products, and 18 companies led by RM had mounted a legal challenge.

Government approval overtook their application for judicial review, and on Monday each side agreed to pay their own costs.

'Impermissible'

A statement from the BBC on Wednesday said that last summer, Michael Stevenson had held discussions with a potential distribution partner for the digital curriculum - Pearson.

"An internal inquiry has confirmed that the discussions were impermissible in the light of ongoing legal proceedings concerning the basis of the BBC's application for new service consent and prior to the secretary of state's decision," the statement said.

"The BBC apologised in court for this."

It is being stressed that there is no suggestion that anyone was seeking to profit personally.

'Proud'

Michael Stevenson said: "I made an error of judgement and, as a consequence, I have decided to leave the BBC, taking responsibility for what happened.

ANALYSIS

The saga goes to the heart of the debate over the BBC's role as a public service broadcaster

Torin Douglas

"Having worked so long to create the digital curriculum, I am proud that consent has been achieved and confident of the benefits it will bring."

The BBC director-general, Greg Dyke, said: "Michael's decision comes just three weeks after the BBC gained approval for the digital curriculum - principally because of Michael's vision, commitment and hard work, in extremely complex circumstances, over a number of years.

"I'd like to put on record my appreciation of Michael's wider contribution in putting learning at the heart of the BBC's services.

"Michael has been criticised in the Digital Curriculum Inquiry report and has taken the honourable decision to leave the BBC. I respect the way he has acted in taking this course of action.

"I am sad that Michael is leaving the BBC and wish him well for the future."

'Smooth transition'

The two will not be clearing their desks immediately.

A BBC spokesperson said they would remain available for some time to ensure a smooth transition.

No successors have been announced. For the time being, the joint director of factual and learning, Glenwyn Benson, will assume sole responsibility.