LONDON — Richard Sharp, a former Goldman Sachs banker and adviser to the British government, is expected to be named the next chairman of the BBC, to lead the public broadcaster through a critical period as its purpose, funding and sustainability are reviewed. Mr. Sharp will take the helm at the broadcaster amid long-running complaints by the governing Conservative Party over its coverage and the mandatory license fees paid by households to finance it. The BBC reported on Mr. Sharp’s appointment after an initial report by Sky News. He has not taken public stands on the fee or on how to ensure the broadcaster’s financial viability as more viewers turn to streaming services. Mr. Sharp, 64, donated more than £400,000 ($542,000) to the Conservative Party between 2001 and 2010, according to public records.

Source: International New York Times January 06, 2021 19:01 UTC