Barry Tomes, the publicist representing disgraced former BBC newsreader Huw Edwards, has broken his silence on the recent dismissal of BBC radio star Scott Mills. Tomes issued a sharp seven-word statement, distancing himself from any involvement with Mills while speculating on the circumstances behind the sacking.
Background of the Scott Mills Allegations
Scott Mills, a long-standing favourite on BBC Radio, was abruptly removed from his BBC Breakfast show role earlier this week. The dismissal followed an allegation related to his personal conduct, which has since been revealed to involve a relationship with a male from over a decade ago. Further details emerged that Mills was investigated for serious sex offence allegations concerning a teenage boy under the age of 16.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that an investigation was launched in December 2016, following a referral from another police force. The allegations pertained to serious sexual offences reported to have occurred between 1997 and 2000. A man in his 40s at the time of the interview in 2018 was questioned under caution.
In 2019, the Crown Prosecution Service determined there was insufficient evidence to bring charges, leading to the closure of the investigation. Despite this, the BBC acted swiftly last week after receiving a complaint, resulting in Mills' contract termination over the weekend.
Barry Tomes' Statement and Speculation
According to the Daily Mail, Barry Tomes was quick to deny any representation of Mills, stating, "I am not a consultant for ex-BBC employees!" He then offered his own speculation, suggesting, "My guess he said 'thanks love' when a runner gave him a cup of coffee. That person is now off sick with anxiety. This is the world we live in."
Tomes has been representing Huw Edwards ahead of the Channel 5 drama, Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards, which documents the scandal where Edwards admitted to creating indecent images of children in 2024.
BBC's Response and Internal Reactions
The BBC confirmed Mills' departure in a statement, noting, "While we do not comment on matters relating to individuals, we can confirm Scott Mills is no longer contracted to work with the BBC." A source close to the BBC indicated that the broadcaster acted "quickly and decisively" following the complaint.
Lorna Clarke, the BBC’s Director of Music, informed staff via email about Mills' sudden exit, acknowledging the shock among colleagues and listeners. Mills had only taken over the flagship breakfast show from Zoe Ball in 2025 and signed off his last broadcast with, "See you tomorrow," before being replaced by colleague Gary Davies without warning.
Wider Context and Media Coverage
This incident adds to a series of scandals for the BBC, coming shortly after the Huw Edwards controversy. The Mirror first reported Mills' sacking, causing audible gasps in the newsroom as staff were left shell-shocked by the unexpected news.
It has also been revealed that Tony Hall, the director general at the time of the initial allegations, was not aware of them, highlighting potential oversight issues within the organisation.
The BBC has updated the complainant following Mills' dismissal and remains in contact with them, underscoring the broadcaster's commitment to addressing such matters promptly.
