The BBC has said it is seeking "urgent clarification" from Palestinian and British authorities over the fate of missing correspondent Alan Johnston.

In a statement issued this lunchtime referring to a claim last night that Johnston has been killed, the corporation said: "The BBC has still had no independent verification of rumours concerning Alan Johnston. We continue to be highly concerned for his safety and are demanding urgent clarification from the Palestinian and British authorities. Our thoughts are with Alan's family, and we appeal to those who have taken him to release him unharmed."