The BBC has announced further details regarding the broadcaster's plan to merge channels BBC News and BBC World News - with a new channel confirmed to launch next year. Earlier this year, it was announced that the BBC's brand new channel will replace the existing UK and international news channels.
Last week, the BBC announced new details of the merger. Set to launch in April 2023 as part of plans to create a "digital-led" organisation, the broadcaster has now confirmed the merged channel will be called BBC News.
BBC News will air around the world, providing licence fee payers in the UK with ad-free access to a "huge range" of international coverage not previously available. However, the BBC emphasised that such plans are "subject to consultation with staff and trade unions". While the merger will result in 70 job cuts within the UK, the broadcaster confirmed the creation of 20 new roles, both on and off screen in Washington DC.
As reported by the Mirror, It is understood that correspondents will be given more opportunities for on-air presenting, while the title 'chief presenter' will be allocated to fewer high profile staff. The BBC said the rebooted BBC News channel will feature new flagship shows built around high-profile journalists, with it broadcast from London during UK daytime.
The channel - broadcast from Singapore and Washington DC at other times - will include a new team who will provide "universally available coverage of global breaking news". And "when relevant" there will be a domestic-only stream for UK-specific news events to ensure audiences get the best live video coverage of national news.
BBC News Digital Director Naja Nielsen said: "Our aim is to create the best live and breaking video news service in the world - on our web pages, our apps, on BBC iPlayer and on our new TV news channel.The way audiences consume news is changing.
"In recent years we've seen a huge surge in audiences coming to our live coverage, with tens of millions following live pages when big stories and events unfold," they further commented.
Naja added: "We are investing in new capability to cover breaking news stories, and our news channel and digital teams will work hand in hand to bring the best journalism to audiences both at home and abroad."
The Daily Record has contacted the BBC for comment.
