Many programmes featuring the presenter have fallen victim to the corporation’s drive for younger viewers

This Week, the BBC’s long-running politics programme, is being axed by the corporation after Andrew Neil, its host, decided to step down.

The BBC One show will disappear from schedules this summer after the corporation decided it would not be recommissioned, The Times understands. It has run for 16 years.

The cancellation will disappoint fans of This Week’s informal and gently satirical take on Westminster affairs.

Despite its late slot, airing at 11.45pm after Question Time on Thursdays, the programme’s lighthearted but rigorous tone attracted a loyal audience.

Regular panellists included Michael Portillo, the former Conservative MP, and Diane Abbott, Labour’s shadow home secretary, who enjoyed an unlikely on-screen chemistry despite their political disagreements.

Last night Fran Unsworth, BBC Director of News, said: