Panorama launched in 1953

The Guardian newspaper says the programme could be given a "touchy-feely" overhaul by the corporation.

It reported that among ideas being considered was linking subjects covered to EastEnders storylines.

But BBC deputy director general Mark Byford said it would remain a place for "rigorous, trustworthy journalism".

Mr Byford added the corporation was looking at the best way of improving current affairs on the BBC, including BBC One.

'Serious'

"We have said unequivocally in Building Public Value that we intend to restore the prominence and appeal of serious current affairs on BBC television including on BBC One.

The Guardian's report, which it says was based on a leaked BBC document, suggested that new presenters would be brought in and the 50-year-old programme would be moved from its Sunday night slot back to weeknight prime time.

A BBC spokesman insisted the report was only a "creative brief" designed to stimulate debate at departmental level and was not a policy document.

Mr Byford said: "Any discussions around the scheduling of Panorama are set firmly within a context of it remaining the flagship of serious, rigorous, trustworthy journalism and analysis.

"Panorama will focus on the stories that matter and courageous, investigative journalism from reporters of real calibre will remain a vital part of the programme."