James Stephenson appointed as the head of news at BBC World News; says the British 24-hour news channel 'is strongest it has ever been'.

James Stephenson has been appointed as the head of news at BBC World News (TopTV 400 / DStv 400).

"I'm absolutely delighted that James will be leading the next phase of development for our news output," says Richard Porter, the controller of English, BBC Global News. "This is a very big year for BBC World News, with investment in new studios and in our journalism."

"James is ideally suited to take us forward, with huge experience of journalism and production and his understanding of the competitive landscape."

"I'm delighted to have been asked to run BBC World News," says James Stephenson in a statement. "The channel is the strongest it has ever been and this year's move to Broadcasting House has placed it at the heart of the BBC newsroom. I look forward to working with the World News team and the whole of BBC News to make the most of all we can offer to our global audience."