Reading all the recent news about the cuts being made by the BBC, in both their staffing levels and their budget for new programmes, you’d be forgiven for thinking that the Beeb is very short of cash.

However, it may then surprise you to find out that the strapped TV channel managed to shell out over £30 million last year on flights and accomodation for many of its stars and big wigs.

The Sun has revealed that the BBC splashed out up to £5000 on one return business class flight alone, and that it’s executives were treated to breaks in top class hotels such as Ciragan Palace in Istanbul where, for about £600 a night, you can “live like a Sultan”.

A BBC spokesman denied the claims saying that the figure was actually down on last year and that they only book travel when absolutely necessary.

However lower sources in the channel revealed to the newspaper: “Graham Norton filmed scenes over in Las Vegas for his show The One And Only.

“What purpose did that have? Nothing. Just more cash down the drain.

“This just goes to show that the BBC are happy spending money on themselves, but when it comes to making programmes they plead poverty.”

Another added: “I’m sure we’d all love to stay in extravagant hotels.

“Personally I’d rather have a guaranteed job.”