Newswatch

I haven’t yet seen the programme but with regard to comments about relying on newspaper journalists in reports, what I would say is that BBC News seems to rely on a small circle of external commentators. The BBC seems to always use Simon Calder of The Independent to discuss matters relating to tourism and travel. Similarly, the BBC also relies heavily on Joshua Rosenberg of the Telegraph to discuss legal matters, and Emily Bell or Matt Wells of The Guardian to discuss media. It seems that BBC researchers always go for the easy option of using the same familiar names rather than seeking out new contributors who can provide informed comment and a different perspective.

However, I would commend The Week in Westminster on Radio 4 for inviting a broad range of guest presenters from George Pascoe-Watson of The Sun to Peter Oborne of The Spectator.

Inquiring minds want to know....which story is more newsworthy in the minds of BBC editors, Madonna's adoption or Sir Paul's marital problems? Well somebody has to sort out the real issues of the day. If not BBC, then who?

I can't accept that the repetitive 'good mornings' on Breakfast are an example of politeness. The people involved have been working together for hours. How often do you wish a colleague 'good morning'? Every time you see them? Or just once? In fact the constant greetings could best be described as 'pseudo-politeness' and as such are a considerable irritant.