BBC criticised for executive pay rises of up to 30 per cent

♦ MPS have criticised the BBC over claims that some of its best-paid executives have been awarded wage rises of up to 30 per cent.

An analysis of BBC salaries reveals that 102 managers are paid more than £150,000, with pay rises worth up to £75,000 for the biggest winners. The increases come as the BBC is under pressure to make cuts, with a threat to scrap free television licences for the over-75s.

Ken Macquarrie saw his pay rise £75,000, from £250,000 to £325,000. The BBC said his 30 per cent wage rise was a reflection on extra responsibilities. Mr Macquarrie was head of BBC Scotland but was promoted to the newly created role of BBC’S Director, Nations and Regions in September 2016.

James Purnell, a former Cabinet minister in Gordon Brown’s government, enjoyed a £20,000 pay rise to £315,000 a year as Director, Radio and Education. The BBC said Mr Purnell had a bigger job.

Ian Lucas, a Labour MP on the select committee for digital, culture, media and sport, said: “Licence payers will be completely mystified that the levels of pay seem to be increasing in the way they are.”