Stuart Murphy named first controller of BBC Three

Stuart Murphy, currently Controller of BBC Choice, is to become the first Controller of BBC Three, the new digital channel aimed at young adults due to launch in February 2003.
Announcing the appointment, Jana Bennett, Director of Television, said: "Stuart has been with BBC Three from the very beginning and has played an integral part in its development and the approval process.
"We are all really excited about the fresh and contemporary channel he is launching next year, it will bring the best public service values to a younger generation and offer something very different from other digital channels.
"His plans are bold and thought provoking and I for one cannot wait to see them on air."
BBC Three is to be a distinctive and inherently multicultural, interactive channel with 80% of programming specifically commissioned for the channel and 90% of programming being made in the UK or Europe.
Original and intelligent drama and entertainment will represent the majority of the output, but more than a third of programmes will cover news, current affairs, education, music and arts.
There is a commitment to 15-hours of science, religion, ethics and business per year, a dedicated 15-minute news programme each weekday evening with hourly bulletins until midnight and a commitment to new talent.
Stuart Murphy said: "Being given the chance to launch BBC THREE is one of the most exciting jobs in broadcasting.
"It is great to offer brand new drama and entertainment to this audience but I am relishing putting together a schedule which also has new current affairs, factual and news programming aimed at this age group.
"I hope people will feel there is quality programming covering all areas of their life on BBC Three."
(GB)