British editor backs out of top Washington Post job

British journalist Robert Winnett has decided not to take up the position of editor at the Washington Post and will instead continue in his role as the deputy editor at the Daily Telegraph in London. This decision comes after a period of controversy at the US newspaper following his appointment. Telegraph editor Chris Evans informed the staff about Winnett's decision in an email, stating that Winnett is 'a talented chap' and that his decision to stay is a loss for the Washington Post but a gain for the Daily Telegraph. The controversy arose due to leadership changes implemented by publisher Will Lewis, who is also a Briton and the former editor of the Telegraph. Both the Washington Post and the New York Times have conducted investigations into Lewis and Winnett, focusing on their alleged past practices at UK newspapers. Jeff Bezos, the owner of the Washington Post, has been working to revitalize the paper, which has been experiencing a decline in readership and financial losses. As part of this effort, Lewis was appointed as the Post's publisher and CEO in January. However, the paper's first female editor, Sally Buzbee, recently announced her departure amidst a plan to restructure the newsroom. Lewis had intended to divide the newsroom into three separate divisions, but Buzbee disagreed with this plan. The New York Times reported that she also clashed with Lewis over whether to publish a story about the phone hacking scandal at UK tabloid newspapers and a related civil case brought by Prince Harry. Despite Lewis's objections, Buzbee chose to publish the article, which mentioned Lewis by name. A spokesperson for Lewis denied that he pressured her. Matt Murray, a former Wall Street Journal editor, has been named as Buzbee's temporary replacement until the November presidential election. Lewis had announced Winnett's hiring as Buzbee's permanent replacement less than three weeks ago, but now a search will begin for the editor who will lead 'core coverage'.