STV’S controversial digital politics and comment editor Stephen Daisley has resigned just months after allegations he had been “gagged” by management over his anti-SNP jibes.
Accusations of “gagging” by the broadcaster after alleged “bullying” by the SNP came from Scottish Conservative culture spokesman Jackson Carlaw in reports that STV had not published any of Daisley’s articles since July 19, despite him having contributed two or three a week since 2014. Daisley is said to be “on gardening leave” while he sees out the end of his notice period and is expected to leave his post at the end of the month.
An STV spokesman said he was still an employee for the time being and added: “I can confirm Stephen Daisley has resigned.”
Sources close to STV said plans were afoot to revamp the digital side of the business replacing the news/political comment with more entertainment to boost online audience figures.
STV refused to discuss any future plans or go into any more background on Daisley and Daisley himself have both refused to make further comment. was unavailable for comment.
STV strongly refuted the gagging claims and the SNP denied any pressure was put on STV over Daisley’s controversial comments.
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