On the same program, the BBC's Deputy Director General Mark Byford defended the decision.

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Byford said because the BNP had garnered a million votes in the European Parliament elections, about the same support as the environmental Green Party, its leader was invited on the broadcaster's premiere political program, Question Time.

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Mark Byford, former director of World Service and Global News, is currently acting director general.

BBC: NEWS | Entertainment | BBC Hutton inquiry clears editors

There was never anything but unwavering support from Helen Boaden, Mark Thompson, Mark Byford and all the other bosses.

BBC: We are not afraid

Mark Byford came alive much, much too late and was really ineffective.

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