[Keith]

If they’re doing pilots running at the same time as the live bulletin I’d have thought we’re not far off?

I know some people have previously suggested it wouldn't happen until the new year "because Doctors doesn't end until December". However, I can't see them waiting until Doctors has finished before moving the One to Salford. I wouldn't be surprised if the BBC may opt to simply make one of the subsequent programmes 30 minutes in length, instead of being 45 minutes. This would allow Doctors to remain on BBC One but start slightly later at 2pm.

Extending the News at One to an hour and moving it to Salford will presumably provide a cost saving. The sports bulletin (currently branded 'Sportsday') can then come from the same studio with the same crew, whilst nations and regions opt out. It also removes the need for the News Channel to have a UK-opt between 1.45 and 2pm, which presumably requires some crew and a presenter.

If the News Channel had the desire they could then have UK opts on weekdays from 9am to 1pm and 2 to 6pm, both conveniently four hour chunks. I dare say with a general election looming in the coming months this might even happen, at least temporarily.