BBC Issues Formal Apology Over Handling of Scott Mills Allegations
The British Broadcasting Corporation has publicly apologized for its inadequate response after allegations concerning former Radio 2 star Scott Mills were brought to its attention last year. This development follows a report by The Telegraph which revealed that the BBC was aware of separate allegations against Mills almost a full year ago but neglected to conduct a proper investigation.
Termination and Emergence of Serious Allegations
Scott Mills, a prominent Radio 2 presenter, had his contract terminated by the BBC over the weekend. Initially, the corporation stated his dismissal was related to claims regarding his "personal conduct." However, on Tuesday, it emerged that Mills was under investigation for allegations of "serious sexual offences" involving a boy who was under the age of 16 at the time.
The alleged offences are reported to have occurred between 1997 and 2000. The Metropolitan Police confirmed it launched an investigation in December 2016 following a referral from another police force. A man in his 40s was questioned under caution in July 2018, but the Crown Prosecution Service decided in May 2019 that the evidential threshold for charges had not been met, subsequently closing the case.
BBC's Failure to Act on Earlier Information
According to The Telegraph, a freelance journalist contacted the BBC in May 2025 with information about alleged "inappropriate communications" involving Mills. The journalist inquired whether the broadcaster had ever been aware of or involved in any related matters, and whether it had received any formal or informal complaints about Mills concerning safeguarding, inappropriate conduct, or harassment. The journalist also asked if the BBC had ever conducted an internal investigation into Mills.
The BBC acknowledged receiving this press query in 2025 but admitted it contained limited information. In a statement to Sky News, the corporation said, "This should have been followed up and we should have asked further questions. We apologize for this and will look into why this did not happen." The statement further urged anyone with concerns or information to come forward.
Immediate Repercussions and Broader Impact
Mills, who has not yet commented publicly on his sacking, was taken off air by the BBC last Tuesday. The 53-year-old presenter, who took over from Zoe Ball on Radio 2's breakfast show in 2025 after a long career at the BBC and regional radio, was earning between £355,000 and £359,999 annually. Following his dismissal, the charity Neuroblastoma UK announced it had severed ties with Mills, stating he was no longer a patron for the organization.
This incident raises significant questions about the BBC's internal protocols for handling serious allegations and its commitment to thorough investigations. The broadcaster's apology underscores a recognition of its failure to act promptly and appropriately when critical information was presented nearly a year ago.
