Murdoch appointment raises questions

APPOINTING family members of major shareholders to key positions in plc’s reinforces the need for independent directors to maintain shareholder confidence, according to Irish investment managers.

Ann Fitzgerald, the secretary general of the Irish Association of Investment Managers (IAIM), spoke amid speculation British Sky Broadcasting (BskyB) was to appoint its new chief executive last night.

The satellite broadcaster that operates the Sky TV channels and is chaired by media baron Rupert Murdoch was expected to appoint Murdoch’s son, James, as chief executive.