Whatever the qualities of Radio 1, and there are many, there are also
a few negatives, not least of all the misrepresentation of low life
behaviour as 'hip'.

I have had two occasions recently to observe the Radio 1 controller at
close proximity in situations where he was called upon to answer
questions or address an audience.  I am convinced he is under-skilled
for the position he holds.

Radio 1's reputation is fairly tatty these days, and aside from the
odd great moment, it is extremely uneconomical in bringing excellence
to air.

It tens to confirm as desireable the lifestyles which are so corrosive
to the people who live them.  While the Radio 1 DJ's can afford taxis
and other professional help when their over indulgence on drugs or
alcohol takes it's grip, a view expounded on air, by contrast most of
their listeners to Radio 1 don't have the same options required in
order to cope when they screw up.

Parfitt is less than talented in his defence of the stations cultural
bent.  His 'whatever goes must be legit' stance shows lack of
awareness of the crisis in our society.  Equally his ham-fisted
stringing together of sentences is revealing of his general lack of
precision, direction or of any constructive passion for the people his
station claims to entertain.

I believe the Radio 1 staff and the Radio 1 listeners deserve better
than Andy Parfitt.  His casual, sloppy and defensive attitude
impregnates and colours every programme the station produces.  With so
much of the output I have the feeling: yes, 'but they could have done
so much better'.

I'm sure Andy has a role in Radio, but the reputation of the station
needs lifting, and he is not the man to achieve this.  Kick out the
controller, and get the show back on the road.

Turk182