Sharp asks BBC panel to examine Boris loan
BBC chairman Richard Sharp has asked for a scrutiny panel to examine potential conflicts of interest over his role in helping Boris Johnson
secure a loan.
Mr Sharp insisted he was “not involved in making a loan or arranging a guarantee” for the then prime minister but acknowledged the row is a “distraction” for the broadcaster.
He told BBC staff members his role was merely to “seek an introduction” for Sam Blyth, who reportedly acted as guarantor for a loan to Mr Johnson, “to the relevant official in Government”.
He said: “This matter, although it took place before I joined the BBC, is a distraction for the organisation, which I regret. I’m really sorry about it all.”
Mr Johnson has insisted that Mr Sharp had no knowledge of his personal finances.
Mr Sharp was in the process of applying for the BBC chairmanship when he made the introduction and was subsequently appointed to the role.
He said: “I was not involved in making a loan, or arranging a guarantee, and I did not arrange any financing.”
Mr Sharp, who was working in Downing Street as a special adviser to the Treasury during the pandemic, explained the situation to Cabinet Secretary Simon Case.
“I went to see the Cabinet Secretary and explained who Sam was, and that, as a cousin of the then prime minister, he wanted to help him if possible,” Mr Sharp said.
“I also reminded the Cabinet Secretary that I had submitted my application for the position of BBC chairman.
“We both agreed that, to avoid any conflict, I should have nothing further to do with the matter.
“Since that meeting I have had no involvement whatsoever with any process.”
Mr Johnson said Mr Sharp has no knowledge of his personal finances. Speaking to Sky News, Mr Johnson said: “This is absolute nonsense.”
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the BBC chairman went through a “rigorous” and transparent recruitment process.
Shadow culture secretary Lucy Powell has written to the Commissioner for Public Appointments asking for an investigation into the process.