SALMON TAKES ON ROLE OF RACE CHAMPION

Director of Sport Peter Salmon (pictured) has taken on the role of ambassador for ethnic minorities as the BBC’s Diversity Champion for Race in the light of current race champion Director of News Tony Hall’s decision to leave the BBC at the beginning of April.
Tony Hall announced he was leaving the BBC to become Executive Director of The Royal Opera House.
Dyke recently criticised the corporation for having similar ethnic problems to those of the Metropolitan police. During an interview on ‘The Mix’ Dyke referred to the BBC as ‘hideously white’ whilst explaining he intended to fulfil the pledge of his predecessor John Birt to extend employment and promotion policies.
Salmon said: “The BBC are keen to fulfil their pledges to reflect Britain’s ethnic diversity more accurately in their programmes, services and workforce. I am delighted to step into this role and wholeheartedly committed to seeing through its aim.”
Head of Diversity Linda Mitchell said: “I am looking forward to working with Peter as the BBC’s new Diversity Champion for Race.”
Lyra Saldanha, previously the Director of Cardiff and District Multi-Cultural Arts Development (CAMAD), has been appointed to the post of Community Liaison Officer at BBC Wales. She will be responsible for developing BBC Wales’ community involvement and diversity strategy. Peter Salmon’s agreement will ensure continuity of responsibility at Executive Committee level for this important area. (CMcL)