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 HardTalk presenter Stephen Sackur. For more information on the database click here.

Education

Learn about the significance of a private/Oxbridge education here

Stephen Sackur attended King Edward VI grammar school before graduating from Emmanuel College, Cambridge and completing a Henry Fellowship at Harvard. (source).

Revolving Door

Learn about the significance of the Revolving DDoor.

Stephen Sackur has no significant experience in the fields of politics or business.

“Establishment” Connections

Learn about the significance of Establishment Connections here

None.

Salary/Indications of Wealth

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

Stephen Sackur is recorded in the BBC salary tables as earning between £175,999 to £179,000 in 2022. This is 7 times more than the UK national average. (source)

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

Summary

Stephen Sackur is a graduate of both Cambridge and Harvard and earns 7 times more than the UK average.

Impartial? Independent? Holding the powerful to account?

Learn more about the Matrix Project here.

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