Some are a bit leery. There is an image problem to be overcome.

If there are no problems we could be on air by the World Cup.

By and large, people have been approaching us. We have well over 4,000 applications for editorial jobs from people who've worked at CNN, BBC, Fox, Sky News and Australian television.

Sir David is a fantastic catch for us, because of what he can bring us in terms of interviews, his contacts book and his knowledge of Europe and America.

We will share resources, production facilities and story lists.

Understands the importance, as well as the consequences, of providing news from all sides of the issue, a core value of the channel.

One of the aims will be to try and bring better understanding of each other's positions. We'll aim for balance ... It's not going to be anti-Western or anti-American.