BBC confirms Laura Kuenssberg's exit as political editor

By Neil Wilkes, Editor-in-chief | 13h

Laura Kuenssberg will step down as the BBC's political editor next Easter after seven years in the role.

Laura Kuenssberg is to step down as the BBC's political editor next Easter, it has been announced.

The 45-year-old has held the position for seven years, during which she has presided over a tumultuous time in British politics including Brexit, two general elections and the coronavirus pandemic.

When she steps down as political editor, Kuenssberg will take on a new "senior reporting role" at the corporation, hosting "a range of news and current affairs projects across TV, radio and online".

In a statement announcing the move, she said: "I've been so lucky to do the best daily reporting job in the business, with the best colleagues anyone could wish for. It's been incredible to occupy the chair during a time of such huge change and to try to make sense of it for our viewers, listeners and readers online.

"I'll miss the daily drama, and our wonderful team in Westminster, immensely. But after nearly seven years and what feels like decades' worth of headlines, it's time for the next move."

Tim Davie, the BBC's director-general, added: "Laura has been an outstanding BBC political editor throughout the most turbulent political times in living memory. Her incisive commentary, tough questioning and astute insight have guided our audiences through the last seven years.

"She's a superb interviewer and engaging presenter, and I'm thrilled that we are keeping her on our screens and airwaves. I'm looking forward to her next chapter."

The BBC now intends to launch "a competitive recruitment process" to find Kuenssberg's successor.