BBC Releases Explosive Statement on Scott Mills Termination
The BBC has broken its silence regarding the controversial sacking of popular Radio 2 presenter Scott Mills, delivering a bombshell new statement to the Mirror that reveals the Corporation acted after obtaining "new information" about the broadcaster.
Fresh Details Trigger Decisive Action
In the exclusive statement, the BBC confirmed 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." This revelation confirms earlier Mirror reporting that bosses were presented with fresh details about Mills' conduct, leaving them with "no choice" but to take immediate action.
The Corporation emphasized its commitment to improved standards, stating: "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."
Historical Police Investigation Revealed
Separately, the BBC acknowledged awareness of a previous police investigation involving Mills, confirming: "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."
The statement added that the Corporation is "doing more work to understand the detail of what was known by the BBC at this time," suggesting ongoing internal scrutiny of how historical information was handled.
Background of the Case
The Mirror previously revealed that Mills' dismissal relates to a 2016 police investigation involving a teenage boy who was under 16 at the time. While the new information involves the same individual, it differs from the original allegations of serious sexual offences that prompted the police probe.
Mills was questioned by police in 2018 regarding these allegations, with the Metropolitan Police confirming the involvement of an underage individual. A complete file was submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service, which ultimately determined insufficient evidence existed to pursue charges.
The BBC acknowledged the shock surrounding Mills' departure, stating: "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." However, the Corporation emphasized limitations on what could be publicly disclosed, noting the need to be "mindful of the rights of those involved."
This development follows extensive media speculation since Mills' sudden termination, with the BBC's statement providing the first official explanation for the dramatic decision that has rocked the broadcasting world.
