So, after two decades of Today morning service, Jim Naughtie, who is 63, will shortly move to become Senior Naughtie Correspondent, with special responsibility for covering the things – British, American, and French politics in particular – that we know he enjoys. The transition, moreover, comes drenched in adulation from Jim’s bosses. He leaves on the wings of corporate praise. But what does it all mean?
No surprises. Of course it means that Nick Robinson – whose health needs a less demanding beat – will shortly inherit a Today chair; and it could well mean that the terrific Allegra Stratton from Newsnight becomes the BBC political editor.
Is everybody happy? Everyone but the headhunters, perhaps. But this particular series of shuffles arrives with one unexpected bonus attached. Jim Naughtie is a detailed master of Scottish politicking. There is no one who is better at explaining Scotland to the Scots – or to the English. And that job has never been more important.
Perhaps, just for once, the start of the shuffling exercise will also prove to be its justification – and ultimate triumph.
