Former York journalist replaces Martin Bashir in key BBC role

A journalist who started his career in York has been appointed as the BBC’s new religion editor, following the departure of Martin Bashir earlier this year.

Mr Bashire quit the BBC on health grounds before the publication of an investigation into his conduct in securing a 1995 Panorama interview with Diana, Princess of Wales.

Aleem Maqbool is currently BBC News’ North America Correspondent and has been based in Washington DC since 2014.

He has worked at the BBC for nearly 20 years, reporting on political and social news stories across the USA and beyond for TV, radio and online audiences.

His previous postings include Pakistan correspondent and Gaza/West Bank correspondent. 

However he started his career as a reporter for BBC Radio York.

He said: “I am delighted to take up a role that focusses on telling stories associated with faith and ethics, and reflecting on the complex way in which they continue to shape our society.

“After many years in foreign news I also look forward to working with a wonderful team in London.”

Jonathan Munro, deputy director of BBC News, said: “Aleem has always been an exceptionally thoughtful reporter and analyst with journalistic drive and a strong vision for reaching new audiences and delivering on digital. I think he’ll be fantastic”.

Aleem will take up the position in spring.

Martin Bashir left the role shortly before Lord Dyson issued a scathing report into the circumstances surrounding Mr Bashir’s Panorama interview with Diana, Princess of Wales.

The report, published in May, said the journalist used “deceitful conduct” to obtain the 1995 bombshell interview by using false bank statements.

Nevertheless the BBC rehired Bashir as religious affairs correspondent in 2016.