Times 'may appoint first non-British editor'

The Times is said to be preparing to appoint its first non-British editor to succeed Peter Stothard who stepped down on Thursday.

It's being reported that Australian-born Robert Thomson will take over the post from Mr Stothard who had been editor for 10 years.

Mr Thomson is currently the managing editor of the Financial Times in the US.

Mr Thomson has become increasingly close to Rupert Murdoch, the chairman and chief executive of The News Corporation, The Times' parent company of The Times.

Neither Mr Thomson nor Mr Stothard have commented on the new appointment.