BBC to investigate news culture amid calls for reform by ministers

Corporation appoints team to look at effectiveness of policies and practice, particularly around whistleblowers

The BBC's governing body has launched an investigation into the culture of its news operation, as ministers said the circumstances of Martin Bashir's interview with Diana, Princess of Wales could be used to justify reform of the national broadcaster.

The BBC's board said it was confident the corporation's internal processes had improved in the period since Bashir used fake invoices to gain the trust of Diana's brother in an attempt to secure a Panorama interview with the royal.