Filming on The Apprentice has been delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Boundless, the production company behind the reality show, was due to begin taping the 16th series.

It is the latest production affected by the outbreak, with filming on The Great British Bake Off delayed and soaps including Coronation Street and EastEnders put on hold.

BBC cost cutting plans
The Apprentice is one of the BBC’s flagship shows (Aaron Chown/PA)

The BBC, which has broadcast the show since 2005, said it would continue to look at each of its programmes on a “case-by-case basis”.

A BBC spokesman said: “In light of the spread of Covid-19, after much consideration, Boundless, the producers of The Apprentice, have postponed filming in consultation with and supported by the BBC.

“We will continue to review all productions on a case by case basis and will continue to follow the latest news and advice from the Foreign Office, World Health Organisation and Public Health England.”

The programme sees businessmen and women go head-to-head in a bid to win a £250,000 investment from Lord Alan Sugar and hear the words “you’re hired”.