BBC 1's heavyweight Sunday political discussion show, On the Record, will not be axed and will continue to play an important role as a 'serious political' programme in the BBC schedule, according to the head of the BBC's political review Sian Kevill, writes Leigh Holmwood
BBC 1's heavyweight Sunday political discussion show, On the Record, will not be axed and will continue to play an important role as a 'serious political' programme in the BBC schedule, according to the head of the BBC's political review Sian Kevill, writes Leigh Holmwood.

However, the strand - which has been the subject of constant reports that it is to be dropped - will undergo a revamp this summer when a new editor is brought in to replace David Jordan, who is moving to the BBC's Millbank base.

Kevill told Broadcast: '[The revamp] is not an attempt to change the programme's profile. It will still have a long-form interview and will remain a serious political programme.' However, the show's name could change.

The possible demise of On the Record has led to accusations that the BBC plans to dumb down its political coverage. Kevill's review revealed that the corporation needed to connect with younger voters. A political version of Big Brotherwas considered.

Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith this week called the BBC's proposals a 'counsel of despair'.

However, Kevill said: 'It is absolutely clear that there will be no diminution in the number of hours we devote to politics and parliament. The aim is to build on the strengths we have got.'

A decision on the new politics format for under 45-year-olds will be made late next week from a shortlist of three.