Special Recognition Award NTA: David Dimbleby Says Too Few Politicians Are Willing To ‘Say What They Think’

David Dimbleby has urged politicians to speak their mind more often as he was acknowledged for his decades-long service to the television industry.

The veteran broadcaster was honoured at the National Television Awards just weeks after he stepped down as chair of Question Time.

After a show reel of his career was played, the election night staple took to the stage to give a speech that heaped praise on the BBC, where he worked since he was a young reporter.

The 80-year-old said: “All the things you saw there were on the BBC. I’ve been a fan all my life. I began with the BBC, I think it’s one of the great national institutions.

“I know many of the people we are seeing tonight are from other channels but I think the existence of the BBC – the continuation of the BBC – is absolutely vital for our national life. However it’s threatened by Netflix or other competition. 

“The BBC still holds a heart in the place of the British people.”