The BBC's flagship Radio 4 programme, Today, has been dealt a significant blow after an internal edict instructed correspondents to prioritise social and digital platforms, including TikTok and Instagram, over traditional television and radio appearances. The Guardian understands that staff were told last week that digital content is now the top priority, effectively deprioritising the agenda-setting show, which still commands over 5 million listeners a week.
Body blow for Radio 4's flagship
One Radio 4 insider described the change as a 'body blow', warning that it will erode the programme's relevance. 'Today has stayed healthy in the digital age by being well resourced and dependable,' they said. 'If something happens and you need to know about it – perhaps before going to work – then no other broadcaster can match it. But the plan appears to be for Today to hear from, for instance Steve Rosenberg if Putin dies, only after Steve has satisfied people who get their news on TikTok.'
The insider added that the shift amounts to 'an act of vandalism pure and simple', as it chips away at Today's role in the life of the nation. Some staff are reportedly alarmed and despondent about the new priorities, which come alongside cuts to the number of journalists.
Adapting to digital shift
Other insiders argue the change is inevitable. 'The reality is you'll still hear all the big beasts,' one said. 'These are guidelines and we have to shift priorities. That doesn't mean Today will be anything other than a flagship programme.' Another BBC source noted that Today could adapt, but raised concerns that the interests of social media audiences differ from those of Radio 4 listeners, who include the nation's opinion formers.
Radio 4 and Today have not had their own dedicated correspondents for some time, as such posts were abolished in previous savings rounds. They now compete with other BBC platforms for correspondents' time. Many insiders believe the new priority is actually aimed at TV bulletins, but worry that radio is being lumped in with the decline of linear television.
Protecting Today from cuts
Today has been largely protected from cuts, apart from a decision to reduce the main presenting roster from five to four after the departure of Amol Rajan. However, its fellow Radio 4 news programme The World Tonight is to be axed. The skirmish demonstrates how divisive the BBC's cuts programme will be, with more painful decisions expected from the new director general, Matt Brittin.
A BBC spokesperson said: 'Radio is still enormously important to BBC News and Today remains our flagship programme. Our ways of working have to reflect the stark realities we face – a savings target of at least £500m and changing audience habits – but we're confident Today audiences will continue to get the same brilliant programme and hear from all our correspondents.'
