Mark Thompson: News is not a commodity – it is a vital part of our democracy

Agree. Though I'd be happy IF the BBC reported the news in an objective fashion, as required by its obligations to those who fund it.

This still-paying audience (who, oddly, has never been asked and hence rarely sees his views reflected in any of the 'the UK people say' research trotted out) doesn't think that's happening, no matter what you 'believe'.

Beyond 'facts' that can be shared more and more often than other 'facts', and hence shape agenda from the get-go, we're also treated to opinion or analysis of these by selected individuals, presumably to help 'us' 'understand' the 'right' way to interpret things 'better'.

As to lack of sensationalism, pull the other one.

Your salaries are based, and hence depend on one thing: ratings. That's how those odd parity calculations are made with the commercial sector so the 'talent' can be retained.... along with the bonuses.

Aunty would sell her own grandmother's 'story' if it meant a one day blip.