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Michael Gove Appointed Editor of The Spectator
Former government minister Michael Gove is set to take the helm as the new editor of The Spectator, following its acquisition by hedge fund investor and supporter of GB News, Sir Paul Marshall. Gove will officially start his role in early October, as confirmed by Freddie Sayers, the magazine’s publisher.
In a recent announcement on X (formerly known as Twitter), Sayers expressed confidence in Gove’s capabilities, stating he is “perfectly suited to the role.” Gove’s appointment is pending final approval from Acoba, the advisory committee that provides guidance to former ministers regarding business roles post-government.
Gove will succeed Fraser Nelson, who has served as editor for over 15 years. Nelson is set to continue contributing to The Spectator as an associate editor. In his farewell remarks published earlier this week, he described Gove as “the clear successor” who possesses distinguished journalistic credentials, having transitioned from journalism into politics rather than the typical reverse path.
Nelson reflected on his tenure, noting the timing of his departure coinciding with the magazine’s change in ownership and its new ambitions. He has been at the forefront of enhancing The Spectator’s digital presence and overall success during his leadership.
Gove, who represented Surrey Heath as an MP since 2005, has held numerous positions in the cabinets of David Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, and Rishi Sunak. He announced his resignation from Parliament in May, coinciding with a wave of exits from Conservative MPs ahead of the July elections.
As Gove prepares to lead the publication, the Conservative Party is also entering a critical phase with the election of its next leader. Earlier this month, it was revealed that The Spectator had been sold for £100 million to Sir Paul Marshall’s Old Queen Street media group. Marshall’s bid outperformed around twenty others, securing the magazine that was once edited by Boris Johnson.
This acquisition comes after a previous sale attempt involving an Abu Dhabi-backed consortium fell through, following governmental interventions that prompted new legislation restricting foreign ownership of UK newspapers. This legislation aimed to prevent foreign governments from acquiring influential UK media outlets.
Established in 1828, The Spectator holds a legacy as one of the oldest politics and current affairs magazines globally. Sayers has also announced that Charles Moore, a former editor of the publication, would serve as its non-executive chairman. Moore’s role will focus on maintaining the editorial independence and integrity of The Spectator.
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www.bbc.com