[aaron_scotland]

Technically does anyone know if the BBC are moving their switching equipment from Elstree to NBH? I think someone made a good point that with IP these days physical circuits to a specific place probably are of less use.

[thegeek]

Regardless of how they do it, I think editorially it makes sense to have the switching done in the same room - similar to a VT multiplex operation - so that the people controlling the different areas can see what else is going on. There are probably ways and means but I'd imagine they'd prefer to not have to re-engineer it in a hurry.

There a couple of photos of it here, should anyone be interested:
www.cazphoto.co.uk 

bbc elstree | 365 Selfies | Page 2
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  Source: www.cazphoto.co.uk

[Steve in Pudsey]

I disagree that it's idle speculation. Some of the points being raised are in response to coverage elsewhere in the media concerning whom the BBC could/should select to anchor its coverage of the General Election. I'd posit that it's difficult for the BBC to plan and to have rehearsals when it remains unsure as to whom will be in the chair on the night in question.

You seem to be suggesting that because we haven't been told who it is yet, the BBC don't know. I very much doubt that.

[Milkshake]

But it does give the broadcasters something to actually talk about for the first 3 or 4 hours, because at 10pm on election night nobody knows who has won yet

I think this is what is missing from present election broadcast nowadays. Everyone has to sit for up to 90mins talking about exit poll.

Yet go back to 1987 ITV had Spitting image election special from 10.05 - 10.45 . Was it 1983 election where the BBC repeat Mike yarwood xmas show? I'm sure even in 92 they had some light relief with Rory beamer.

[Steve in Pudsey]

Was it a repeat of the Yarwood show? I had it in my mind that it wasn't shown at Christmas because of the election purdah and that was the first airing?

I suspect the difference these days is that the Exit Poll tends to be reasonably accurate, in those days it was seen as a bit of a diversion.

[Stuart]

I suspect the difference these days is that the Exit Poll tends to be reasonably accurate, in those days it was seen as a bit of a diversion.

Accuracy aside, it gives them plenty to talk about for 4 hours.

If there is a clear winner, then one side is using their cue cards from the 'excuses collection', while the other are using theirs from the 'I'm trying to to gloat yet' set.

Where the result is closer, we get 4 hours of delicious squirming from all parties.

[Brekkie]

Sadly I suspect this year we'll get the Trump playback too of denials and unfounded accusations around the result and probably some very bitter, possibly inflammatory, speeches when some seats are lost - which may have consequences in the days that follow.

[harshy]

Sorry if it’s posted but if Sky can do similar to this I am definitely tuning into Sky News

youtu.be 

Such a fantastic theme tune.

[Chud]

Regarding the US elections, do we know yet who will present that coverage? Is Katy Kay back doing that kind of presenting for the BBC? It’s a shame Andrew Neil isn’t around as Katy and Andrew did a great job. Let’s hope for a better studio this time.

[UTVLifer]

Regarding the US elections, do we know yet who will present that coverage? Is Katy Kay back doing that kind of presenting for the BBC? It’s a shame Andrew Neil isn’t around as Katy and Andrew did a great job. Let’s hope for a better studio this time.

It was announced when she returned to the BBC that Katty would continue as election night anchor, and she did go onto present coverage of the 2022 midterms with Christian Fraser so she'll almost certainly be leading the team for the presidential election in November