BBC Delays Publication of Tim Westwood Report Following Metropolitan Police Request

The BBC has postponed the release of its internal report concerning the corporation’s knowledge regarding the alleged conduct of former BBC Radio 1 DJ Tim Westwood, acting on a request from the Metropolitan Police. In 2022, BBC News aired allegations from 18 women detailing predatory and unwanted sexual behavior and touching by Tim Westwood, with the alleged incidents spanning from 1992 to 2017. Mr. Westwood has refuted the allegations of misconduct. A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police stated: “While consultation with the CPS is ongoing, we have asked the BBC to pause the publication of their report to allow for further time to consider any potential impact on the investigation.” The BBC’s report, spearheaded by Gemma White KC, was commissioned by the broadcaster to investigate Mr. Westwood’s tenure of employment. The BBC confirmed that police had requested a temporary halt to the report’s publication, adding that it would maintain communication with the authorities. In a statement, the BBC indicated it would issue another update once there was sufficient clarity. The BBC’s statement continued: “The police have requested that the BBC pause its intended publication of the report. This is to allow the investigating authorities further time to consider the impact of the publication of the report on the ongoing investigation.” “We have discussed the police’s request with Gemma White KC and she has agreed that it is appropriate to pause publication in these circumstances.” “The BBC has always been clear that it intends to publish Gemma White KC’s report. We recognise that this pause to publication will be disappointing – particularly to those who came forward to participate in the review and to whom we are very grateful.” “However, we must continuefro to ensure that any steps we take, including in relation to publication of the report, do not negatively impact any criminal process.” Mr. Westwood is understood to have been interviewed under caution by the Metropolitan Police on four occasions since the joint investigation by BBC News and The Guardian was broadcast. Police indicated in a statement that the alleged offenses occurred between 1982 and 2016. Detectives reported interviewing a man in his 60s man under caution last year, with no arrest having been made. The BBC’s internal review concerning Westwood’s employment was initially projected to conclude in approximately six months. A freedom of information request submitted by BBC News earlier this year disclosed that the BBC has, to date, expended over £3 million on the review. Last month, the Metropolitan Police confirmed it had advised the BBC that certain sections of the report “may interfere with justice if published.” The force also confirmed the submission of an evidence file to the Crown Prosecution Service, while continuing its inquiries. It characterized the investigation as “a complex and sensitive matter” and stated that its “absolute priority is to maintain the integrity of our investigation and support and retain the confidence of potential victims.” Tim Westwood resigned from his Capital Xtra program in 2022. The 67-year-old has persisted in performing at events nationwide, even as some advocates have urged nightclubs to refrain from hosting him since the allegations surfaced. He also frequently performs at gigs in West Africa.