THE new director-general of the BBC, Greg Dyke, is cutting back on the corporation's chauffeur-driven car service. Dyke has announced the new executive committee he is creating will not be entitled to the use of chauffeur-driven cars, which were supplied on lease. He will, however, be keeping his chauffeur-driven Jaguar, which was bought second-hand from his previous employer, Pearson TV.

Under John Birt's leadership, nine executives were provided with this perk, together with an additional car for personal use. A BBC spokesman said: 'Cars were provided in the past because the BBC couldn't match the salaries, bonuses and share offers available in the commercial sector. Committee members will still get a car for personal use.'