Newsbeat deputy editor to run Question Time

BBC senior news editor Julian Vaccari is to replace Gerry Gay as editor of Question Time.  

Vaccari will start his role in August ahead of the current affairs programme’s return in September.  

He has been with BBC News for two decades, most recently as deputy editor of Newsbeat on BBC Radio 1. He has worked across the corporation’s newsroom, radio, TV and online, editing bulletins for Radio 4 and developed new services for smart speakers and BBC Sounds. He has also worked as a radio producer in Jerusalem and as an editor with BBC World Service.  

Gay, who has been editor of Question Time for three years, will return to BBC Scotland News as editor of daily journalism. 

The current affairs Q&A show is produced by Mentorn Scotland for BBC Scotland.  

John McAndrew, director of live and daily news, said Vaccari is the “perfect fit” for the role. 

He continued: “As we look forward to the programme’s return in September, we can expect to see more Question Time across our news and digital platforms, with more people from across the country holding power to account and asking the questions that matter to them.  

“At a time of growing polarisation, distrust and global instability, Question Time’s role to facilitate informed debate across the UK has never been more important.” 

Vaccari said of his appointment: “The show’s appeal over the decades is a testament to the power and simplicity of the format. At its best, Question Time is a celebration of community and shared experiences. I want people from every part of the UK and every walk of life to feel like they can take part and hear their views expressed.” 

Nicolai Gentchev, director of current affairs, Mentorn Media, said: “In an age saturated with opinion, rigorous and informed debate is needed more than ever. Question Time will continue to tackle difficult topics and provide a forum for debate across the political spectrum. We look forward to Julian’s tenure. 

“We’d also like to thank Gerry for his exceptional leadership. He has crafted distinctive programmes that cut through serious political issues and connected with the public.” 

Question Time will return on 25 September on BBC1 at 10.45pm and on iPlayer at 9pm.