BBC's former director Lord Hall quits National Gallery role after turmoil over Diana interview

The former BBC director-general Lord Tony Hall has left his role as chairman of the National Gallery amid the continuing criticism over the corporation’s Panorama interview with Diana, Princess of Wales in 1995.

Lord Hall, who was heavily criticised in the Dyson report for his botched inquiry into how the interview was obtained, said his continued presence at the gallery would be “distraction”.

The report by former master of the rolls Lord Dyson found the internal BBC investigation had covered up the “deceitful behaviour” of reporter Martin Bashir.

BBC's ex-director general Lord Hall resigns from National Gallery.

In a statement Lord Hall, who was director of BBC news and current affairs at the time Bashir interviewed Diana, said: “I have today resigned as chair of the National Gallery.

“I have always had a strong sense of public service and it is clear my continuing in the role would be a distraction to an institution I care deeply about.

“As I said two days ago, I am very sorry for the events of 25 years ago and I believe leadership means taking responsibility.”

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