Elisabeth Murdoch quits Sky

NEWS Elisabeth Murdoch, managing director of Sky Networks, is leaving the company to set up her own media firm specialising in television and new media content. Murdoch joined BSkyB in 1996 with responsibility for the company's programming business. Although considered by many to be the successor to her father's empire, Rupert Murdoch last year stated that when he steps down he plans to hand over the reigns to his son, Lachlan. In a BSkyB statement issued today Murdoch said she had been planning the move for some time. BSkyB said Mark Sharman, director of broadcasting, would temporarily replace her.