In the frame

And that, in essence, is the problem with the BBC. It has focussed so much on minorities and eccentricities that it has forgotten that its primary duty is to inform and to entertain.

That talented female presenters have been sidelined, whether it be because of ageism, sexism or other factors, is symptomatic of an organisation that has lost touch with its viewers and listeners. The challenge for Lord Patten, a former Cabinet minister, is sidelining the egos of some male presenters so that female talents, like Fiona Bruce who is fronting an intriguing new series on royal palaces, can express themselves.

Of course, the make-up of the BBC’s main presenters should not be made up according to quota. Talent and ability remain pre-requisites, but at least the BBC Trust chairman recognises that the current make-up is alienating viewers and listeners.