Bennett keeps them guessing over C4 job

A top BBC executive today increased speculation she will quit the corporation to take charge of Channel 4.

Jana Bennett, BBC director of television, refused to comment on strong industry rumours that she would replace Mark Thompson as Channel 4's chief executive.

But she used the same tactical language as Mr Thompson, who initially told reporters he would not apply for the job but did not rule out an approach by the rival broadcaster to join.

Mr Thompson was named as the new BBC director-general last month, weeks after he was forced to make a stronger statement ruling himself out.

On the day he accepted, he spoke of his "inner voice" and compared his change of heart to Sonia Gandhi, who backtracked by deciding not to become Indian prime minister last month.

Today Ms Bennett was asked about the Channel 4 job and joked: "I can feel a Mark Thompson moment coming."

She refused to say whether she would join Channel 4 but, choosing her words carefully, she said: "I am not going to answer your question on a matter of principle." She added: "I have not applied." The principle was, Ms Bennett explained, that she was talking to the media only to introduce Janice Hadlow, her new appointment as controller of digital arts and culture channel BBC4.

Ms Bennett, 45, is seen as the main contender for the Channel 4 job along with Sky Network's managing director Dawn Airey.

The appointment is expected to be made next month.