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 the BBC world affairs editor and foreign correspondent John Simpson. For more information on the database click here.

Education

Learn about the significance of a private/Oxbridge education here

John Simpson attended the independent Dulwich College Preparatory School and St Paul’s school (source).

Simpson then studied English at Magdalene College, Cambridge (source)

Revolving Door

Learn about the significance of the Revolving Door.

None.

“Establishment” Connections

Learn about the significance of Establishment Connections here

Simpson’s first wife, Diane Petteys is an American portrait painter. His second wife, Dee Kruger, is a TV producer (source)

Complaints/Controversies

Simpson was heavily criticised in 2004 for tax avoidance when he placed his London house in a company based in the Bahamas that was directed by his wife. This move would have allowed him to avoid inheritance tax and stamp duty on any future sale of the house. He responded to criticism by rescinding the company ownership and agreeing to pay all relevant taxes etc (Source).

Salary/Indications of Wealth

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

John Simpson has a recorded BBC salary of £178,000-£184,999 for 2023. (Source)

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

Summary

John Simpson was privately educated, attended Cambridge University. He is married to a TV producer who helped him set up a lucrative tax avoidance scheme until he changed his mind. Simpson earns 7 times the average UK salary.

Impartial? Independent? Holding the powerful to account?

Learn more about the Matrix Project here.

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