The BBC's political editor, Andrew Marr, is quitting the 10 O'clock News to spend more time with his family.

The Corporation plans to swap him with Mark Mardell, political correspondent for the Six O'clock News.

Marr said yesterday: "I have done three years on the 10, and shuffling the pack is no bad thing from time to time."

His wife, political journalist Jackie Ashley, is said to be "delighted" at the move.