Wednesday, February 24, 2016

Tony Blackburn sacked by BBC ahead of sex abuse report


Radio DJ Tony Blackburn has been sacked by the BBC shortly before the publication of a new report into the “culture of deference” at the corporation that allowed sexual abuse to take place.

The review by Dame Janet Smith, a retired judge, looks at Jimmy Savile’s time at the BBC.

Blackburn, 73, is believed to be referred to in the report as ‘A7’ in the context of criticism of the BBC for covering up claims that he "seduced" a 15-year-old Top of the Pops dancer.

The dancer, Clair McAlpine, killed herself just weeks about writing about the alleged sexual encounter in her diary, discovered by her mother in February 1971.

The report is thought to criticise the BBC for not properly investigating the allegations.

Blackburn said the BBC were "destroying my career and reputation because my version of events does not tally with theirs".

In a long statement the DJ insisted he was “not guilty of any inappropriate conduct” and said the report had made no suggestion he was guilty of any misconduct in relation to the teenager.

Blackburn said he planned to take “legal action” against the BBC.  (more...)


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