BBC director general Tim Davie and news chief executive Deborah Turness have resigned amid recent accusations over its handling of global stories.
The corporation has been heavily criticised for the editing of a Donald Trump speech in a Panorama documentary while allegations of bias followed its coverage of the war in Gaza.
There has been intense political and personal pressure on Mr Davie who told staff in a note that the decision to leave was “entirely my decision” and that “the current debate around BBC News has understandably contributed to my decision”.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said the Panorama issue was “very serious” – but there were a series of “very serious allegations” that had been made about the broadcaster, “the most serious of which is that there is systemic bias in the way that difficult issues are reported at the BBC”.
Mr Davie thanked the chair and board for their “unswerving and unanimous support throughout my entire tenure, including during recent days”.
He said: “I have been reflecting on the very intense personal and professional demands of managing this role over many years in these febrile times, combined with the fact that I want to give a successor time to help shape the Charter plans they will be delivering.
“In these increasingly polarised times, the BBC is of unique value and speaks to the very best of us. It helps make the UK a special place; overwhelmingly kind, tolerant and curious.
“Like all public organisations, the BBC is not perfect, and we must always be open, transparent and accountable. While not being the only reason, the current debate around BBC News has understandably contributed to my decision.
“Overall the BBC is delivering well, but there have been some mistakes made and as Director-General I have to take ultimate responsibility.”
He said the timing was the result of a desire “to create the best conditions and space for a new DG to come in and positively shape the next Royal Charter. I hope that as we move forward, a sensible, calm and rational public conversation can take place about the next chapter of the BBC.”
BBC chair Samir Shah issued a lengthy statement: “This is a sad day for the BBC. Tim has been an outstanding Director-General for the last five years. He has propelled the BBC forward with determination, single-mindedness and foresight.
“He has had the full support of me and the Board throughout. However, I understand the continued pressure on him, personally and professionally, which has led him to take this decision today. The whole Board respects the decision and the reasons for it.
“Tim has given 20 years of his life to the BBC. He is a devoted and inspirational leader and an absolute believer in the BBC and public service broadcasting. He has achieved a great deal.
“Foremost, under his tenure, the transformation of the BBC to meet the challenges in a world of unprecedented change and competition is well underway.
“Personally, I will miss his stamina, good humour and resilience and I will miss working with him. I wish him and his family the very best for the future.
“This is an important time for the Corporation and the Board and I will continue to work with Tim in the interim while we conduct the process to appoint his successor.”
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