The BBC has published the findings of a review into what the broadcaster knew about the conduct of its former radio DJ Tim Westwood, who has been accused of multiple counts of sexual misconduct.
According to the report, there was “no widespread or significant BBC knowledge of allegations or concerns about predatory sexual behaviour” by Westwood during his time at the BBC from 1994 to 2013. However, it found that “there were instances where the organisation missed opportunities that might have led to action,” adding that “allegations were treated in isolation rather than being brought together.”
The review also noted that there was “evidence of bullying and misogynistic behaviour on the part of Mr Westwood and the plain fact is that his general conduct was entirely incompatible with BBC values – not just now, but then.” It said that there were times when the BBC, “on learning about concerns” regarding Westwood’s behavior, “did not take adequate action.”
It added: “The organisation fell short and failed people – including our own staff – who had a right to expect better from us.”
Allegations against Westwood, who presented shows on BBC Radio 1 and Radio 1Xtra between 1994 and 2013, arose in 2022 following a joint investigation conducted by the BBC and the Guardian. This brought to light the accounts of seven Black women who alleged sexual touching and sexual misconduct by Westwood between 1992 and 2017. They were featured in the BBC Three documentary, “Tim Westwood: Abuse of Power.”
At the time, Westwood denied all the charges, but stepped down from his show on radio station Capital Xtra.
In its report, the BBC noted that was still an ongoing police investigation into Westwood.
“The police have seen the report, and should they request it, we will assist them in any way that we can,” it said, adding that, “Mr Westwood has always strongly denied all allegations of inappropriate behaviour or wrongdoing.”
In response to the review, Philippa Childs, head U.K. broadcasting union Bectu, said the findings “all too plainly speak to the culture of extreme power dynamics and ‘untouchable’ talent that persists in the creative industries.”
She added: “This must now be a watershed moment for the BBC and for the wider industry, so that we aren’t in the same place next month or in a year’s time.”
