The BBC abandoned three investigations into the row surrounding Martin Bashir and his Panorama interview with Diana, Princess of Wales, according to reports.
The final attempt to probe claims that the television journalist had obtained the interview through subterfuge was shut down when he produced a letter from the Princess clearing him of any blame, an insider has claimed. However, the authenticity of the letter has been questioned because the BBC did not keep a copy.
The corporation last week said it would start a new inquiry into allegations that Bashir used forged bank statements to secure the famous 1995 interview and there are increasing calls for an independent investigation to be held.
Stuart Purvis, a former ITN chief executive, said he could not believe Tim Davie, the BBC director-general, would not want to explore renewed allegations made by the Princess’s brother, Earl Spencer, that Bashir used a number of fake bank statements to secure his first meeting.
Mr Purvis said: “I think we’ve seen in recent times, with the Savile inquiry, having an independent element to the inquiry is beneficial.”
The BBC has now suggested there would be an independent investigation.
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