BBC may set up shop in U.S.

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 31 (UPI) -- The BBC isn't commenting about reports that one of the British broadcaster's top executives may be heading up a division in the United States.

While BBC officials have remained quiet about the possibility of executive Jane Tratner heading up a BBC Worldwide West Coast drama production division in Los Angeles, the highly regarded TV executive is said to be negotiating for such a position, The Hollywood Reporter said Friday.

Tratner has earned a reputation for popular dramatic shows while with the BBC, helping create the series "Spooks," "Life on Mars" and "Doctor Who."

If a U.S.-based division of the successful broadcaster is created, the Reporter said it likely will operate the drama and entertainment operations for the BBC's commercial division.

The entertainment publication said the potential overseas move comes as numerous U.S. groups have offered Tratner a job. Among those companies reported to have tabbed Tratner as a potential employee is the HBO cable network.