The BBC Trust’s report, issued on 21 November, on the Jonathan Ross and Russell Brand affair did not deal with what action should be taken against Ross. However, when questioned, the Trust upheld the BBC’s decision to suspend Ross for three months on no pay and said it would not be seeking further sanctions against the presenter.
In response, David Davies MP called the BBC “pathetic” for failing to sack Ross. Alan Simpson MP went further, tabling a House of Commons motion criticising Sir Michael Lyons and colleagues, and urging Ross’ dismissal. However, the reality is that the BBC may not be able to fairly dismiss Jonathan Ross under UK employment law.
