BBC is embroiled in fresh impartiality row after corporation’s Africa Editor Mary Harper was hired by gang-rapist Yaqub Ahmed’s lawyers to give evidence in his bid to block deportation to Somalia

The BBC is embroiled in a new impartiality row after the corporation’s Africa Editor Mary Harper was hired by gang-rapist Yaqub Ahmed’s lawyers.

Ms Harper, who works for the BBC World Service, argued against Ahmed being deported to Somalia.

He was deported in August following a long legal battle said to have cost up to £1million.

nsiders have reportedly cast doubt on whether Ms Harper sought permission from the BBC before being hired by the lawyers.

A source told the Times the BBC has strict guidelines and processes that control outside engagements for their staff.

A BBC spokesperson said: ‘There is nothing in the BBC’s editorial guidelines that prevent staff acting as expert witnesses who are required to be objective and impartial in their evidence.’

Ms Harper, 58, appeared at the first tier immigration tribunal in Hatton Cross, after being hired as an expert witness by lawyers representing the rapist.

Read more: BBC is embroiled in fresh impartiality row after corporation’s Africa Editor Mary Harper was hired by gang-rapist Yaqub Ahmed’s lawyers to give evidence in his bid to block deportation to Somalia