Times Radio launches with exclusive Boris Johnson interview

“This has been a disaster, let’s not mince our words, this has been an absolute nightmare for the country,” he said. “The country has gone through a profound shock. But in those moments you have the opportunity to change and to do things better.”

In advance, Times Radio programme director Tim Levell, who was previously editor of the Emma Barnett Show for 5 live, said: “We have always had big ambitions for Times Radio and we are delighted the Prime Minister will be with us on launch day. 

“Our promise to listeners is that, in a world of noise and confusion, Times Radio will offer intelligent and thought-provoking news, analysis and conversation, hosted by respected and entertaining presenters.”

Times Radio is broadcast nationally via DAB and operates without advertising breaks, instead offering sponsors “commercial opportunities across the schedule”. Other hires include John Pienaar, Phil Williams and Mariella Fostrup.