US TV boss steps down after gay cartoon row

Regardless of whether or not the cartoon was truly suitable for its intended audience, and whether or not Pat Mitchell's departure had anything whatsoever to do with the ensuing row, this illustrates exactly why the BBC should never be funded directly from government as opposed to having its own guaranteed licence fee. Taste and decency decisions should be made by responsible people without undue political pressure.

And the downside to direct funding also exposes a possible weakness in Ofcom's PSP (public service publisher) proposal, especially if the funding comes from a different source as opposed from a 'top sliced' licence fee, which in itself would be a very contentious decision to make. What if a PSP-funded documentary exposed a major and embarrassing flaw in government decision making; would it be broadcast as a result?