The Matrix Project is an effort to document personal factors that undermine powerful journalists’ claims of objectivity and impartiality. Are factors such as an elite education, establishment connections, personal wealth and interests in rival fields compatible with journalistic integrity? 

This page looks at BBC chief political correspondent Adam Fleming. For more information on the database click here.

Education

Learn about the significance of a private/Oxbridge education here

Adam Fleming attended the fee-paying independent Hutchesons’ Grammar School (source) before studying Geography at Oxford University (source)

Revolving Door

Learn about the significance of the Revolving Door here.

Adam Fleming has no significant experience working in rival fields to the media

“Establishment” Connections

Learn about the significance of Establishment Connections here

Primary

None

Salary/Indications of Wealth

Learn about the significance of journalists with an unusual level of wealth here

Neither the BBC or Adam Fleming have disclosed his salary. This indicates that he does not earn in excess of £150,000 a year at the BBC (the cut-off for their “star salaries” list). His increasing prominence at the broadcaster suggests that he earns significantly more than the UK average and may appear on the star salaries list sooner rather than later.

As a point of reference, the Office for National Statistics list the average UK salary for 2021 as £26,193.

Summary

Adam Fleming attended the classic “fearless journalist” combination of a private school then Oxford University and likely earns significantly more than the UK average.

Impartial? Independent? Holding the powerful to account?

Learn more about the Matrix Project here.

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