Emma Barnett joins Newsnight presenting team as Emily Maitlis is promoted

Broadcaster Emma Barnett is joining flagship Newsnight, the BBC current affairs programme, in a shake up that sees Emily Maitlis confirmed as the show's lead presenter.

Ms Barnett is a former Manchester King David Primary School pupil and Habonim summer camper who has written for the JC.

Ms Maitlis has already been fronting the programme since Evan Davis' departure but the announcement . Kirsty Wark, who has presented on the programme for 25 years, is also to take on an "enhanced" role.

In a 2017 interview about her work, Ms Maitlis told the JC: "I hear some horror stories from other channels, and I think what a blessing to work with a team of people that you’re genuinely happy to hang with. I don’t feel I need to dominate Newsnight." 

Ms Maitlis said: "I am delighted to be moving into this role at a time when Newsnight feels so pivotal to our understanding of this extraordinary moment in British history."

Ms Barnett said: "I can't wait to get started at Newsnight at a time when no one can predict the next hour in British politics, never mind the next evening."

Editor Esme Wren said: "This is a tremendous presenter line up sends out a clear signal.

"All three bring substantial political clout and a wealth of experience across a broad range of subjects."

Ms Barnett presents The Emma Barnett Show on BBC Five Live on weekday mornings.