ITV boss denies turning ‘blind eye’ to Phillip Schofield affair rumours in grilling from MPs

ITV’S chief executive has denied “turning a blind eye” to rumours of Phillip Schofield’s affair with a young runner.

During a grilling by MPs this morning, Dame Carolyn McCall insisted the relationship on This Morning was “repeatedly denied” over the years.

PA

Dame Carolyn McCall insisted the relationship on This Morning was repeatedly denied[/caption]

Rex

Phillip Schofield quit This Morning after admitting to an affair with a young runner[/caption]

She acknowledged that the “imbalance of power” had made the affair “deeply inappropriate” and the broadcaster would have acted if they had known.

The boss said: “There was only hearsay and rumour and speculation… Nobody on the board would have turned a blind eye to something as serious as this.”

She denied that ITV would have ever covered up the affair – and would have removed Schofield had they had solid evidence.

Dame Carolyn confirmed Schofield is “receiving counselling” since his exit and she is “very concerned” about his welfare.

She also confirmed there is “no gagging order or NDA” to stop the younger lover speaking out about the situation.

Holly Willoughby has continued as presenter of This Morning with a string of co-hosts.

The flagship daytime show has been accused of an atmosphere of “toxicity” by former contributor Dr Ranj Singh.

Asked about the claims, Dame Carolyn insisted: “We don’t recognise that culture.”

She said a survey of ITV daytime staff reveals 89 per cent are “proud” to work there.

But she admitted: “Everything was not glowing but these are strong scores”.