Sir John Tusa, former BBC journalist and ex-Newsnight presenter, has publicly criticized the appointment of Ruth Mackenzie as Arts Minister by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham. Describing the decision as a form of “Labour Party cronyism,” Tusa questioned the merit of Mackenzie’s selection, citing past professional shortcomings.

Mackenzie, who has longstanding ties to Burnham dating back to his tenure as Culture Secretary, was appointed minister of state following her recent peerage. However, Tusa drew attention to a 2000 report that sharply criticized her leadership of Scottish Opera, during which the organization was reported to be on the verge of collapse. He said many in the arts sector viewed her appointment as a reward for failure rather than achievement.

“When the news of Ruth getting a peerage and then becoming minister of state became public, one good friend in the arts said, ‘How many more times will her failure be rewarded?’” Tusa recounted. “And another said, ‘This looks like Labour Party cronyism.’” He added that efforts to identify a record of notable success in Mackenzie’s career had come up short.

A source close to the arts community echoed these concerns, suggesting that Mackenzie’s appointment was largely due to her connection with Burnham. “We all think she just got the job because she’s a Burnham mate,” the source said. “I think her appointment is going to cause massive embarrassment.”

Tusa, 90, plans to elaborate on his views in an upcoming piece on his Substack newsletter, The Ageing Arts Junky. The controversy reflects ongoing debates within the cultural sector about political appointments and the criteria used to fill influential arts administration roles.