Leading economist named as new BBC National Governor for Scotland

Jeremy Peat, Group Chief Economist at the Royal Bank of Scotland since 1993, has joined the BBC's Board of Governors as National Governor for Scotland.
Mr Peat, who took up his new post on January 1 2005, replaces Sir Robert Smith, who retired from the Board on December 31 2004 after six years' service.
BBC Chairman Michael Grade also announced that Mr Peat will replace Sir Robert Smith as Chairman of the Audit Committee.
Commenting on the appointment, Mr Grade said: "Jeremy Peat will be an excellent representative of Scotland's licence fee payers. His professional experience as one of Britain's leading economists will ensure his contribution to the Board will benefit licence fee payers throughout the UK.
"Indeed, his financial expertise and business experience at home and abroad will be a significant asset in his role as Chairman of the Audit Committee."
Mr Peat said: "I am delighted to be joining the BBC's Board of Governors as National Governor for Scotland.
"It is a great honour to represent Scotland's licence fee payers and I look forward to working with the Broadcasting Council members to ensure the BBC's services in Scotland deliver the greatest public value and that Scotland is represented back to the wider UK.
"As the BBC's long term future is debated, I look forward to working with my fellow Governors to ensure the Corporation is strongly positioned to continue to deliver the quality broadcasting that the British public expect and deserve across the whole UK."
Ken MacQuarrie, Controller of BBC Scotland, said: "I am delighted that Jeremy Peat has been appointed as BBC National Governor for Scotland.
"I know that, in such challenging and exciting times for the creative media industries in Scotland, his wide-ranging experience and commitment to accountability will ensure a strong voice for all viewers and listeners."
(GB)