The RDF BBC emails - in full

Brand Republic 17-Jul-07, 09:00

A transcript of the email exchange between David Frank, chief executive of RDF Media, and Mark Thompson, director-general of the BBC, yesterday afternoon.

Dear Mark,

I've just sent a detailed report of the issues surrounding the Autumn launch tape from an RDF perspective to Paul Smith who I understand is assisting you in this matter. I hope you find this useful.

Clearly RDF has been guilty of a serious error of judgement and I deeply regret the embarrassment this has led to for both the BBC and the Queen and wanted to apologise to you unreservedly.

While there was clearly no attempt to include anything misleading in the documentary series to be broadcast by the BBC, I nonetheless condemn what was done by RDF employees in manipulating the chronology of any footage regardless of its objective, use or context.

It has been an extremely painful lesson for those involved. I am taking steps to put in place measures which I hope will ensure nothing of this sort happens again.

So, I'm very sorry for what has happened. I do hope that we can build your trust in us again but I realise we've got a lot to make up.

Best wishes,

David
David Frank
Chief Executive, RDF Media Group PLC

Response from Mark Thompson to David Frank:

Dear David,

Thank you for your letter. I appreciate your acknowledgement of RDF's role in this very regrettable episode and your unreserved apology.

I will be in touch again when our own inquiries are further advanced. But your cooperation, both in uncovering the facts and in learning the lessons, is very welcome.

Yours sincerely,

Mark
Mark Thompson
Director-General, BBC