The BBC, like it or not, commands worldwide respect, and has a reputation, again, like it or not, for unbiassed reporting. I've travelled all over the place, and often people tell me that they listen to the BBC to get the facts. I feel a sense of national pride. I don't fly BA anymore, but I used to get a kick out of sitting on a BA 777, and hearing shortly after takeoff "and now, from London, the news from the BBC". It meant something.
However, I agree with the point that the facts of an event should be confirmed, before announcing what turns out to be completely the wrong news. It seems to me that the rush to get a "story" out is more important than the accuracy of that story. If the BBC has a reputation for unbiassed accuracy, then it ought to strive to maintain it.
However, a more disturbing thought for me, is that the change in British society as a whole over the last three decades or so, is being reflected in the BBC. Those of us who serve, or have served, perhaps hold more traditional views than those who are in the media, and thus there will be conflict.
Personally, I would prefer the BBC maintain the same standards as the Times or Telegraph.