Why John Humphrys will be missed as the voice of Today

John Humphrys is stepping down as presenter of the Today programme.

THERE are very few politicians – or public figures – who have emerged unscathed from an interrogation by John Humphrys on Today, BBC Radio Four’s flagship current affairs programme.

For more than three decades, the journalist, 76, has been fearless in holding the great and the good – including his BBC employers – to account with his agenda-setting style of questioning.

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And while his guests – and also listeners – were often left infuriated by his frequent interruptions, and preferential pay in comparison to female co-presenters, this interviewing technique was driven by a desire, by Humphrys, to elicit the truth.

John Humphrys (left) with is former Today colleague Jim Naughtie,

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They may not have enjoyed these encounters, but leaders, from Margaret Thatcher onwards, did appreciate that such encounters were in the public interest if voters were to be better informed about their policies.

Why John Humphrys will be missed as the voice of Today – The Yorkshire Post says